For me, one of the best albums of recent times was The Russian Wilds from Howlin Rain. A pure exercise in classic rock with emphasis firmly set on “classic” it was a mindblowing journey into the past as the former Comets on Fire men evoked the 70's with all its pomp and glory. In short, it was one of the albums of the year and showed a wonderful development in their sound.
Two years down the line and we now have a live album documenting that tour. It seems a little late in the game but fits in perfectly with the rock ethic that this band subscribe to. Like the great live albums of yore, this is a full on, no holds barred, warts and all exercise in bringing the live power of the Rain to you.
And what power they have. Opener 'Phantom In The Valley' is much rawer than its album version and shows a much looser sound to their playing which ties in well with their tendencies to approach rock from a jazz ethic. Guitar solo's wind out into the ether as the drums and bass keep a nice chunky sound going.
'Self Made Man' takes its origins and turns into a giant epic on this album spiralling out into a jazz odyssey which never gets boring or indulgent. Maybe this is Howlin Rain's true talent in that they know exactly how much is needed. For a band who have been playing for many years now, they certainly have this live thing down to a tee.
All their albums are represented here with the gospel inflected 'Lord Have Mercy' being a particular highlight showing a band who have never been afraid to embrace their roots. Indeed, there is no reason not to doubt that Howlin Rain may be one of the greatest bands ever and if they had been around in the 70's they would certainly have been on a par with Led Zeppelin.
If further proof is needed of the true power of this band then check out the brilliant 'Roll On The Rusted Days' which is classic rock at its finest and stays with you long after the album has finished. It's a fitting end to a great live album and we can easily place Live Rain next to such classics As Thin Lizzy's Live and Dangerous and Kiss Alive. Great fun and a band who prove that live is best.
