Friday, 7 August 2015

Boomtown Rats US review



SUNDAY, JULY 5, 2015


CD/DVD Review: The Punk Fury Of The Boomtown Rats Comes Alive In New Two-Disc Set

In 1978, punk music was hitting the height of its popularity with bands like The Clash, The Ramones and the Sex Pistols all having hit albums. Their music led the way for the "new wave" of European punk/rock bands like U2 and The Boomtown Rats, led by Bob Geldof. The Boomtown Rats had two #1 singles in the U.K., but failed to make an impact in the U.S. as their albums developed more of a cult following here in the states. The band disbanded in 1986 as Geldof became more involved in the formation of charity events like "Band Aid" and "Self Aid." Gonzo Multimedia is releasing the band's first live CD/DVD release entitled "Live Germany '78." The two-disc set features the band's full performance, professionally filmed and showcases the band in their prime.

The setlist includes eight songs from the band's self-titled debut album as the energy from those songs fuels the audience and Geldof's live performance. The band's second studio album "A Tonic For The Troops" is scarcely represented as the band are still finding their live form on these songs. The music is quick and energetic as the only time the band can rest is during Geldof's explanation between the songs. Their "new wave" appeal is heard during "Joey On The Street Again" and "(She's Gonna) Do You In)," while the energetic punk feel of "Kicks" and "It's All The Rage" showcases the full strength of The Boomtown Rats. They finish with their first hit U.K. single "Looking After Number 1," which is a pure blast of fun and energy. I will say, it must have been a tough performance for the band to perform in-front of an audience that is sitting down to these energetic pieces of punk/rock music. The DVD also includes two bonus live TV videos of The Boomtown Rats in 1980 and 1982 performing the songs "Banana Republic" and "House On Fire" respectively.

The CD contains the entire "Live Germany '" performance and is a nice bonus to have in the set. Also included is 12-page full-color booklet of unpublished photos and a copy of The Boomtown Rats tour and concert documentation. to find out more about The Boomtown Rats "Live Germany '78," please visit gonzomultimedia.co.uk.

CURRENTLY AVAILABLE AT GONZO:

Live in Germany '78
DVD/CD - £14.99
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