The first association that arises when listening to THE WILDHEARTS is: how many times have I heard this before. But it's a stubborn fact that in the mid-'90s there was a renewed interest in primitive hard rock/traditional metal/glam metal. What drew people back to simple, uncomplicated music that doesn't make you think too hard, unburdened by anything other than the eternal themes of "sex, drugs, rock'n'roll"? Let's leave the question open. Remember the band WOLFSBANE, now forgotten? That's where Blaze Bayley once sang — future vocalist of IRON MAIDEN, and now the leader of his own project; notably, he left nothing of that music behind and performs quite interesting, darkish heavy metal. But let's delve into the work of THE WILDHEARTS, though there's frankly not much to delve into. Before us is another live album from the group. Extremely simple riffs, periodically accompanied by equally simple groove, a practical absence of noteworthy solos, supportive drum parts, and the bass guitar follows suit. The vocals deserve special comment. And the comment is this: they're weak! And it's not even that all vocal parts are performed within less than one octave, but that the singing is utterly inexpressive.
Well, I've offended the band, but the people love them — the song "Geordie in Wonderland" is sung in its entirety by the audience from start to finish. There's undoubtedly something in this music. Namely, endless positivity that doesn't make you think about absolutely anything. Zero mental strain. The concert is recorded quite well; there's nothing to fault whatsoever. And therein lies the main shortcoming: everything is fine, everything is simple — you listen and forget...