LIVESTOCK

Definite proof that Brand-X could deliver the goods in a live setting. This disc was taped at several different shows, thus the drumming split between Phil Collins and Kenwood Dennard. Overall, I like Collins drumming far better on these tracks, where he lays into it with relentless passion yet doesn't overplay, whereas, Kenwood Dennard goes so overboard at times you almost think the songs could blow apart. But despite that, there's still lots of cool stuff happening here, like the ominous "Nightmare Patrol" featuring a great fretless solo from Percy and a melody line that will give you nightmares for days. "Melaga Virgen" gets the thrashing of its life, and "Euthenasia Waltz" grows some fangs as well. There are also two band improvisations, of which "Isis Mourning" is the more successful. With some more work afterwards, this actually could've turned into a very rich composition. "Ish" has its moments but can't seem to find its legs.