Posted on: April 25, 2010 Posted by: Jay NeuFutur Comments: 0

I have been a Pet Shop Boys fan for about a decade now, and while I stick with a great many of their classic tracks, I feel that they have had a nice progression over the course of the last few years. “Pandemonium Live” is their latest effort, and it showcases the entirety of one of their storied live performances. This time out, the tapes were rolling at the O2 Arena, as the act was supporting their “Yes” album. What results  is a collection of songs that spans the entirety of their career, whether early “West End Girls” or “It’s A Sing”, middle (“Se A Vida E”) or more current.

What is most impressive to me about the performance captured here would have to be exactly how much the band has changed some of their best known tracks. A great many acts, both famous and upcoming, do their damnedest to ensure that they come as close as they can with live performances to the studio recordings. However, for me at least, the DVD that the package contains as well is where individuals will receive the most value. This is due to the stunning visuals present; the footage here could easily make it onto a theatrical engagement or similarly large type of showing. Finally, the DVD extras that have been placed onto this package will show viewers yet another side to the rich, nuanced façade that is the Pet Shop Boys.

This means that their performance at the 2009 Brit Awards, along with Lady Gaga and Brandon Flowers, has been captured. The Pet Shop Boys have continually innovated and changed themselves over the course of the last twenty-five years, and whether it is on their studio albums, live efforts, or even their B-side collections (Fundamental, Alternative), they always put their heart and soul in it. Check this title out, no matter if you are a long-time fan or someone that is new to the act’s allure.

Top Tracks: Did You See Me Coming?, Why Don’t We Live Together

Rating: 9.0/10

Pet Shop Boys – Pandemonium Live / 2010 Parlophone | Astralwerks / 46 Tracks / http://www.petshopboys.co.uk / http://www.astralwerks.com

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