Album review: LIVE – The Turn

Released [03.11.14]

Live have had an interesting history these past few years to say the least as after splitting-up in 2009 and parting with lead singer Ed Kowalczyk, lawsuits and recriminations followed.

Eventually in 2011 the other band members rebooted the Live name and enter new vocalist Chris Shinn, who makes his recording debut with the band on this album. In a nod back to their past and arguably most popular era in commercial terms, Jerry Harrison (ex-Talking Heads) is back as a co-producer.

Chris Shinn has a nice melodious vocal with a gruff edge when needed, in fact on songs like ‘Don’t Run To Wait’ and ‘By Design’ he reminded me of Widespread Panic’s vocalist John Bell. Hints of the ‘Throwing Copper’ days come back on ’6310 Rodgerton Dr.’ where Shinn digs deep and pours some real passion into the vocals.

If anything this album sees Live at their most commercial as ‘Need Tonight’ is an instant melody and ‘Sirens Call’ could become a staple of alt-radio airplay in the US. ‘Til You Come Around’ shows the band can still produce those gentle, yet effective acoustic tunes.

This is a good album, not a classic by any means but enough to keep the doubters at bay who thought the band would be finished without Ed Kowalczyk. ***1/2

Review by Jason Ritchie

Live play Koko, London on 5 November

Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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Next session: Sunday 19 January

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Power Plays w/c 9 December 2024

In this sequence we play ‘The Best of 2024′ GRTR! reviewer selections

Featured Albums w/c 9 December 2024

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2024 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003-2024 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2024 (Singer Songwriter)