So I have some "cred" regarding Uncle Ted.
Ok, here we go....
Ted has almost as many, if not more live recordings, than he does studio albums. Yes, he does rely almost exclusively on his "back catalog". Yes, his voice is not what it once was. But at 63 years of age, Ted and his band can wipe most bands 1/3 their age off the stage......literally, figuratively, spiritually and physically. Unlike several past live efforts, Ted has Derek St. Holmes back on board. While Ted has underplayed Derek's importance over the years, fans know how important Derek is to Ted's "classic" sound. Derek's presence is what really makes this recording stand out.
Not much more to write about the songs, since most are considered "oldies"; and are familiar with most listeners. I will say they are delivered with a ferocity, competence and attitude missing from many of Ted's past live efforts. The sound quality is fantastic and the mix is excellent.
I do wish Ted would turn up Derek's guitar in the mix though. Derek is an above average player and letting us hear his guitar would definitely help round out the sound. Ted's playing is pretty much spot on throughout, although in some songs, like "Fred Bear", he lacks a bit of restraint; and attempts to play at a speed a bit outside of his extensive skill set. But I digress and nit pick.
My only beef, or should I say venison, is not so much Ted's political rants, but lack of new material. I find Ted's between song chatter and guitar riffing one of the benefits of his live experience. Ted's rants are entertaining, informative and often hilarious. But, if you are going to rant and rave with such intensity and frequency, use the content for lyrics to new songs! C'mon Uncle Ted! You can do better than one average mid-tempo rocker, repeating the lyrics "I Still Believe" over & over & over & over & over again ad nauseam, almost forcing the listener to hit forward button. Finally, the previously mentioned "Fred Bear". I may be in the minority, but can Ted consider putting his "spirit" to rest? Maybe it's just the version on this recording. Ted's playing is way out of control here and not in a good way. He's no Joe Satriani and should really stay outta Shredsville. Another one where I could almost not resist the forward button. But hey, maybe it is just me. We'll wait until the next live album to pass final judgement.
So if you are an Uncle Ted fan, this is a most worthy addition. Arguably his second best live effort behind "Double Live Gonzo".
Get ready to crank up those speakers....ear buds or overpriced headphones will not do this album justice. Rating? 7.5/10
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