A KNIGHT IN YORK

A Knight In York is the third live release that I have heard from Blackmore's Night, the other two being Past Times With Good Company (2CD) and Paris Moon (DVD). The differences between these three live recordings are rather small in terms of style and quality, though the set lists differ enough to make this one a worthwhile addition. Which is more than can be said about the band's recent studio efforts! Blackmore's Night is a better band live than in the studio. There is a bit more energy and Rock substance in their live performances than on the often overproduced studio albums.

One difference between A Knight In York and earlier live releases is the total absence of Deep Purple and Rainbow material. This is a shame, but songs like Locked Within The Crystal Ball, The Circle, and Fires At Midnight, keeps some of the Rock spirit alive. Towards the end of the album, they run out of steam somewhat and the focus is firmly on sparse acoustic ballads.

Not as good as the other live releases I have, but it is mostly enjoyable, if unremarkable.