Over the last few years, a lot of bands have played a full album in it’s entirity live on stage. QUEENSRYCHE, JUDAS PRIEST, RUSH & MOTLEY CRUE are among the many that have done this, a few have even recorded it for posterity. Now, TESLA have done the same, recorded to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their classic debut album.
From the outset, it shows the band in great form. Jeff Keith’s vocals are as strong as ever and the playing is as tight and impressive as you will get. The guitars of Frank Hannon & Dave Rude are at times amazing.
It’s easy to forget how great an album this is, from rocking openers ROCK ME TO THE TOP & EZ COME, EZ GO through live favourite COMIN’ ATCHA LIVE to classic live closer MODERN DAY COWBOY. The only addition to the album comes in the shape of the bonus track. SAVE THAT GOODNESS was produced by PHIL COLLEN and while it sounds classic TESLA, there is also (not surprisingly) a DEF LEPPARD feel to it.
There are a few moans to be had, more audience noise and/or participation would have been nice and the fact that this is pretty much just the album played straight through with little changes from the original but with the quality of tracks and musicianship on offer, maybe that is a bit harsh.
A new album is also on the horizon. On this form, I can’t wait. TESLA can do no wrong.
4/5
TRACKLIST
Rock Me to the Top
Ez Come Ez Go
Gettin’ Better
Comin’ Atcha Live
Changes
Before My Eyes
2 Late 4 Love
We’re No Good Together
Love Me
Cover Queen
Lil’ Suzie
Modern Day Cowboy
Save That Goodness (bonus studio track)