Kix:- Kix Live

Release:- 1993
Band Members:- Steve Whiteman, Ronnie '10/10' Younkins, Donnie Purnell, Jimmy 'Chocolate' Chalfant, Brian 'Damage' Forsythe,
Krillion's Rating:- 85%


By 93' 'kix's' blend of good time Hard Rock was about as popular as curry flavoured cornflakes, and this really wasn't the best time to release a live album. This however doesn't mean it ain't going to be any good and 'Kix' turn in a surprisingly flawless performance. The track selection is interesting and I personally would have liked to see more from 'Midnight Dynamite', I can't believe the title track isn't included and the brilliant 'Layin' Rubber'. What we do have though, is twelve excellent tracks that exceed the 70 minutes mark, for which 'Kix' should be complimented. Although the sound level of the album is pretty poor, this is made up for by a seamless production, the former can be simply overcome by cranking the dial a bit more.

After a huge introduction the boys lay into a ripping version of 'Hot Wire' and as with all the tracks 'Steve Whiteman' delivers the lyrics with plenty of gusto and amazing clarity. The pace is dropped slightly for the feel good lightweight rocker 'Same Jane', and they don't disappoint, this is an excellent cut and one of many highlights. 'Rock and Roll Overdose' follows, a real beefy rendition, overflowing with punchy guitar work and sharp vocals. Some solid audience participated enhances the slightly repetitive 'Sex', while the lyrically weak 'Itch' is still an entertaining journey. The tempo is dropped for a heartfelt version of 'For Shame', and although it takes a while to get into the song, its well worth it, again 'Steve Whiteman' sings with real passion and the audience clapping gives the track another dimension. Next up, is 'Tear Down the Walls' personally I don't think it's one of 'Kix's' strongest ballads and does come over a little tedious. Much better is 'Blow my Fuse' with its sweet soloing while 'Girl Money' is another simple but thoroughly enjoyable chorus heavy romp. The 'AC DC' sounding 'Cold Blood' fails to disappoint and 'Don't Close your Eyes' is an excellently executed ballad. The closing track 'Yeah,' Yeah, Yeah,' although pretty tasty in parts is spoilt by the long winded inane tale, 'Steve Whiteman' tells mid-way through.

Although hardly a landmark live album, the production is splendid, and overlooking the low recording level is a very enjoyable romp, that should appeal to most fans of 80's 'Hair Metal'.


Track Listing:- Hot Wire, Same Jane, Rock & Roll Overdose, Sex, The Itch, For Shame, Tear Down the Walls, Blow my Fuse, Girl Money, Cold Blood, Don't Close your Eyes, Yeah, Yeah, Yeah,