Reviewed by Dave Caughey

Barren Cross have established themselves over the last few years as one of the top live bands on the White Metal circuit, and having seen them a number of times, I was extremely curious to hear this double live album. This recording had been shelved by the band's record company for the last couple of years, since this performance at the end of the band's 1988 "Atomic Arena" tour. Therefore, apart from a couple of instrumental tracks all of the material is from the first two Barren Cross albums, which prompts the question was it not a little too early to record a double live album? Firstly, I have to point out that the production of this album is not of the highest standard, and I found myself having to send my stereo's graphic haywire to get a half decent sound. Judging by the quality of the vocals (both lead and harmony) on many of the tracks there are also no overdubs! All of the tracks on this album are passable. However to achieve a top quality product it should have been cut down in quantity to a single album. To my knowledge there is a video recording of "Hotter Than Hell" currently only available in the States (of course!) which would give the instrumentals and solos a greater purpose than on this album where they seem to flounder. "Imaginary Music", "Dying Day", "Killers Of The Unborn" and surprisingly "Dead Lock" all lend themselves well to the live environment. However, to the first time Barren Cross buyer I would say go and see them yourself first, or buy any of their other three albums. Roll on Vince Van Vottenburg's studio debut!

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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