The live CD opens with the uptempo “The Writing on the Wall” and it is followed by the vivacious “Come to Life.” It is great to hear a live version of “Addicted to Pain,” as well as the haunting yet powerful “Ghost of Days Gone By.” It continues with the spitfire “Cry of Achilles,” and the drum-driven “The Other Side.” It consists of 30 songs in all, where every song has its own identity.
One of the highlight tracks is “Watch Over You,” which ought to be enjoyed for the beauty and the simplicity of the lyrics, as well as Myles Kennedy’s rumbling and controlled vocals.
They prove with every song on this CD that they are one of the hardest-working and most underrated rock bands out there. Fortunately, the fans of Alter Bridge are the luckiest, since they get to hear the best live rock tunes.
The Verdict
Overall, Alter Bridge is phenomenal on their Live at the O2 Arena + Rarities album. The listener could feel their energy all the way at the O2 Arena in London, and it gives them a front row seat to their concert with top-notch sound quality. Myles Kennedy’s lead vocals are a true force of nature, and the rest of the band are gifted and talented musicians in their own right. Alter Bridge epitomizes the best that contemporary hard rock and metal music has to offer. This versatile live collection of Alter Bridge songs garners five out of five stars.
This Live at the O2 Arena + Rarities collection is available on Amazon and on iTunes.
