The Red Eyes- Live at the Evelyn 2003

(this isn't the album cover, which is nowhere to be found on the internet)

This live EP was released in 2003, about a year before their High Place EP.

It features the 3 songs from the EP, plus 4 other songs. My opinion of High Place and Babylon Calling on this live recording is unchanged from the EP versions. Which is a complement in itself, since the recording quality is on par with the studio EP, which itself is of a high standard. It's astounding how they achieved such a full, yet detailed sound on this live recording.

However, Ultra Magnetic begins with a long intro, taking almost 4:30 to drop into the groove. Even after this, it still meanders along aimlessly, in my opinion. My People combines lyrics almost entirely consisting of hollow platitudes with a bland reggae style. Not impressed.

On a brighter note, Tribulation is one of few Red Eyes songs where I like the lyrics. While there are still many reggae-dub elements (with a slow, menacing bassline that has a hint of rocksteady) it also reminds be of hiphop. Thieving Hands has great drive, and comes together nicely as one of my favourite songs on this recording.

Favourite songs

Thieving Hands, High Place

Worthwhile?

Kudos for the great live sound, but unfortunately the style of songs doesn't appeal to me.