Reviewed by Simon-Andrei Cluff

Some live albums are definitely better than studio albums because they really bring over the raucous raw energy of the event. This album is such a one. The thumping rhythms and full throttle guitars are more than enough to inspire me to head bang along, and even stage dive off the window sill at home. Having heard this I would have loved to have been at the gig, even if it was recorded in Germany, at Christmas 1998.1 was very appreciative of the fact that I could hear every word that was sung, so the mixing is excellent, well balanced between the vocals on stage and off. The lyrics are rather like the book of Esther, in that they don't mention God or Jesus, but the sentiment is clearly there. It's a great album to play to friends, but it doesn't inspire me to buy Split Level's studio albums. However, old fans and newer rock buffs will both love this, although it must be played at full volume for maximum effect.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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