RATINGS: A = must own B = buy it C= average D = yawn F = puke
Foreigner – Alice & Rockin’
Eagle Records
www.eaglerockent.com
Rating: C+
Foreigner was a great band, made up of members each from other countries so that no matter where they played someone was a true foreigner. With only guitarist Mick Jones left from the original lineup, Foreigner is one of those bands that maybe should not be called the original band name… Purists would agree while the band’s fans would shout out that Mick Jones was the driving force behind the band from day one…Both sides are correct.
This concert CD was recorded at one of Europe’s biggest festivals, the Bang Your Head Festival in Germany, back in 2006. While Jones may have been the only original member, one must admit that the band on the stage that day was pretty freaking good. Joining Jones was ex-Dokken Jeff Pilson on bass and the famous Jason Bonham on drums.
There is nothing wrong with the nine tracks the band played that day, as they are all classic rock staples. “Double Vision,” “Head Games,” “Dirty White Boy,” “Cold As Ice,” “Starrider,” “Feels Like the First Time,” “Urgent,” “Juke Box Hero/Whole Lotta Love” and “Hot Blooded” all go down well.
The best of the tunes is the Jones sung “Starrider” as this was a great song that became a fan favorite album track back in the day. Vocalist Kelly Hanson holds his own when faced with the daunting task of replacing original vocalist Lou Gramm. Hanson’s performance is damn good.
What keeps this one from getting a better grade is that one has to ask oneself if this is really worth buying over listening to the killer studio versions by the original band. Also, is there really a need to release a six year old concert? If you can answer yes to those questions then you will enjoy this one but if not, you will likely listen to this once and then put it back on the shelf.
Tough call. Musically, vocally and performance wise this is a darn good live concert CD. But is it Foreigner? Tell ya what… I will shut up and let you decide.
By Jeb Wright
