So, firstly sorry for being away for so long, had a lot of things going on, but I’m back to review a live album by one of my favourite bands, Toto.
With the announcing of a new album and live album, I became quite cheerful and impatient as it has been a while since their latest studio album, ‘Falling In Between’ (2006) and their latest live album ‘Falling In Between: Live’ (2007). It’s pretty understandable as to why it’s been a while, with the disbanding in 2008, then the reunion in 2010, then continuous worldwide touring. And now, Toto have released a new live album, in which they celebrate their 35th anniversary, in Poland.
So the line-up is actually quite interesting in this concert. It features three originals: Steve Lukather (Guitar, Vocals) David Paich (Piano, Vocals) & Steve Porcaro (Keyboards), Two pivotal figures in Toto history: Simon Phillips (Drums) & Joseph Williams (Lead Vocals), two amazing backup singers and legendary session bass player Nathan East.
And what are the results?
Extraordinary…
Why? Well, let’s start with the performances. Everyone is on top of everything, the performances are great, and considering that most of these musicians are session musician legends, what else can be expected.I have to single out Joseph Williams for his singing in this, as its rowdy and kick-ass, and that goes for the backup singers too. Check out his performance on the ‘On the Run/ Childs Anthem/ Goodbye Elenore’ Medley, along with ‘Rosanna’ and ‘Hold the line’.
Moreover, it goes without saying that the other musicians excel in this live album with memorable performances that give the older material justice. E.g. Nathan East on ‘Africa’, Steve Lukather on ‘How Many Times’, David Paich on ‘Home of the Brave’ & ‘Pamela’. Now of course, I shouldn’t leave out Porcaro or Phillips on this album because they are great as well, I would’ve liked to have seen a solo from both, because both of them can get pretty intense.
Moreover, the audience in the recording seem to be livelier than ever, as I have never heard an audience so loud and cheery, well done Polish audience.
I’d say the album does stand apart from its predecessors, as this completely refreshed line up of new and old give mostly old songs a more energetic and electric feel.
Overall this is something worth waiting for the fans.
Rating 4/5
The Pigeon Stories 