Despite the advances in recording technology, it seems that most live recordings do not capture the full spirit of the band. Going Out In Style should act as a blueprint for anyone that looks to make a good live album, as the band is able to showcase their inimitable style over the course of two discs. The band, even in the later segments of the concert, is still able to possess and foster the same energy that they did both on earlier recordings as well as at the beginning of the show. This set captures both better (Hang ‘Em High, The Irish Rover) and lesser known (Deeds Not Words, Climbing a Chair to Bed) tracks in the band’s discography.
The production and recording of these concerts is immaculate; while one can hear the crowd noise in every track, the cheers and claps are not intrusive. Rather, the fullness of the recording is considerable – each audience member contributes to make this into a complete recording. I believe that the performances of a few tracks – Broken Hymns and Going Out in Style – far surpass any studio version that the band may release.
I feel that the show is bolstered considerably by the lively audience that was present for these two shows. Make sure to pick up the deluxe edition of this release, as it contains a digital download card that allows purchasers to download the full concert video of the CD tracks.
Top Tracks: Going Out In Style, Hang ‘Em High
Rating: 9.4/10
Dropkick Murphys – Going Out In Style: Live at Fenway (Deluxe Edition) (CD) / 2012 Self / 31 Tracks / http://www.dropkickmurphys.com