LIVE AT THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL

A band presentation which reminds us the good days of "Welcome Back My Friends..." to start and make some illusion...The whole lasts for less than two minutes which is totally insane. To reduce the great "Karn Evil" to a mere ninety seconds is the type of crime I cannot forgive. The great "Tarkus" is also limited to less than ten minutes, which is more acceptable but still.... Another step in time with an excellent version of "Knife Edge" (available on their debut album).

It twas the supporting tour for "Black Moon" (rather poor to say the least) so three songs from this album are included. Still, they could have chosen to play the best one of it ("Changing States"). Instead, we have to bear songs like "Paper Blood", and "Black Moon". The only one to be bearable during this live album is Keith's interpretation of a Prokofiev work : "Romeo & Juliet". It is played a little harder than on the studio album, but I prefer this version.

To highlight Keith's ability (which can't be ignored anyway), we'll get a crazy and wild piano solo. Not better nor worse than on other live albums. To avoid jealousy, the next two songs will please Gregg's fans except that his voice is extremely weak (especially during "Still..."). Both studio versions for "Still..." and "Lucky Man" are WAY better than here. But apparently, the crowd is less critical than I am and are more cheerful. Things get better though during "Lucky Man".

"Pirates" was probably one of the most interesting pieces of music of the whole "Works" albums. One of the best three moments on this live album. I also prefer this version of "Fanfare" (forteen long minutes) even if it is included in a medley including a funny moment during which ELP get into "America". But I am not really sure that the fans were expecting this even if it will only be for a few seconds. The finale of this medley is an explosion of keys and drumming. A bit irritating maybe...But that's how we like with ELP, so...

As far as I am concerned, the only live reference for ELP so far is their remarkable "Welcome Back My Friends". Do not bother with this one. You will only be disappointed. Two stars.