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Royal
Hunt belongs on a stage in front of a big crowd, which they
prove once and for all on this outstanding live recording. Actually
the title is a bit misleading, because the album was actually
recorded last year - November 2nd, 2005 to be exact.
To
fans the reason is pretty obvious, their last double live album was
called '1996', and the next in line should then be entitled:
'2016'... This performance was recorded and filmed in Sct.
Petersburg, Russia in front of more than a 1000 enthusiastic fans -
even though they remain seated for most parts of the show, they do
get behind the band and enjoy the show.
The
band is super-tight, having fun and playing an outstanding gig:
original drummer Kenneth Olsen is pounding away behind the drum kit,
André Andersen doing his usual magic with ease and the 2 new guys;
Marcus Jidell (Guitars) and Per Schelander (Bass) are delivering the
goods like had they been in the band for years - they have fully
been integrated in the sound. And it's pretty hard not to be
impressed with John West live on stage - his stage presence and
voice is simply awesome. Maria McTurk on backing vocals is a big
part in the vocal harmonies and choruses, and she falls nicely in
line with the rest of the band.
The
set list leaves absolutely nothing to be desired for, all of the
classics are present, and we get something from all of the albums!
One highlight chases another, my personal highlights include: "The
Mission", "Last Goodbye", "Surrender",
"Lies", "Message to God" and off course "Epilogue".
This
release is available both as a double CD (with the bonus track:
"Long Way Home" from 'Paradox' - here in a shorter version
with John West on vocals) and on DVD. The DVD has the entire show
and a cool 20 minutes section with backstage footage and interviews.
Within
a fortnight we have been blessed with 2 brilliant power metal live
releases, first Kamelot and now Royal Hunt, and if you like me
enjoys these two bands, then get them both, because they are both
awesome in their own terms!
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