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Rating: Mike Portnoy, in his "Live@Budokan," celebrated himself by listing all the bands that have graced this legendary arena with their music: the Beatles, Bob Dylan, Cheap Trick, Eric Clapton, Ozzy Osbourne, and, of course, his Dream Theater. Perhaps in a moment of total ecstasy, Mike Portnoy forgot to mention a group that in the '90s was almost more popular than them: Mr. Big.
Recorded in 1997 (shortly before Paul Gilbert's departure), this live album by Mr. Big at the legendary Budokan represents the pinnacle of their illustrious career. Still maintaining the energy of their early days and setting internal conflicts aside, the band delivered to the audience and those who would purchase the record a performance of unique impact. All their Hard Rock and power overflow from every riff played in this live show. Hearing Martin, Torpey, Gilbert, and Sheehan sing in unison live is a unique experience. The live album kicks off with a piano intro, a fitting prelude to "Trapped in Toyland," one of their most beautiful songs, in my opinion.
And on the notes of their latest (at the time) album "Hey Man," it continues with the moving "Take Cover." Sheehan's bass is always present, and Gilbert's guitar, with its breathtaking distortions and delays, is more moving than ever. Following, among an unusually wild Japanese crowd (but we know... in Japan, Mr. Big was very popular), is the classic "Green Tinted Sixties-Mind." Collegiate, fun, almost childlike, but a masterpiece of a song. "Jane Doe" is introduced by Sheehan's great bass, which at the end of the song, will shine in the introduction of "Had Enough."
Similarly, Gilbert shines in the following "Out of the Underground," followed by the energetic "Alive & Kickin'." The intro to "The Whole World's Gonna Know" extracted from the good "Bump Ahead" comes almost immediately. Eric Martin sings excellently, perhaps underrated, but he has one of the most beautiful voices in the entire '90s rock scene. We return more to rock & roll with "Road to Ruin" and "What It's Gonna Be."
"Fool Us Today" is performed to perfection. A very amusing song. Every member of this group is indispensable, I cannot imagine them apart, as will happen shortly thereafter. They close with the classic "Addicted to That Rush" and the surprise "Suffragette City," sung by an unusual Gilbert in the role of the singer. The album is finally enriched with two bonuses: "Livin' Like a Dog" and "Ain't Seen a Love Like That," studio tracks that further enhance this precious work. As energetic as few live albums. Played with hands, feet, head, and heart. How a live should be. Maybe Portnoy could have mentioned them... Great Mr. Big. Who knows if they were still around today.
To be listened to, appreciated, and listened to again.
Tracklist
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