SONGS FROM BLACK MOUNTAIN - LIVE
More than a decade removed from its “Throwing Copper” heyday, Live has settled too comfortably into the skin of a middle-of-the-road rock act. Although the thinking-man’s group remains consummate performers, 10 cuts on “Songs From Black Mountain” are inspired by vocalist Ed Kowalczyk giving thanks to his personal muses. There is nothing wrong with gratitude, but all the music comes across as the same languid love song (”The River,” “Mystery,” “Get Ready”). In keeping with the title, lyrical references to nature, a tempered electronic sound and acoustic guitar give the set a country air. “Night of Nights” offers much-needed edginess, while “Sophia” and “Where Do We Go From Here?” are glimpses of Live’s earlier rock boldness. A longer visit with those seminal days would have been nice. Billboard
