While listeners eagerly await the May release of RUINING LIVES, the new studio album from PRONG, a previously-unannounced surprise arrived earlier this month with the release of UNLEASHED IN THE WEST: LIVE IN BERLIN – THE OFFICIAL BOOTLEG. Recorded live-in-the-studio at Trixx in Berlin, the basic tracks and overdubs were completed over the course of three days during a break in the band’s Summer 2013 European Tour. The end result is a furious collection of 17 classic PRONG tracks that span the band’s entire career.
Presented in a raw form that showcases the playing of guitarist/vocalist Tommy Victor, Bassist Jason Christopher and Drummer Alexei Rodriguez, it’s interesting to hear some of these songs stripped of their occasional electronic flourishes that became part of the band’s sound during the 90s. Blowing away 2002’s comeback live album 100% LIVE (which I still listen to on occasion), UNLEASHED IN THE WEST sounds like PRONG is playing at your house. Just take a listen for yourself…
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UNLEASHED IN THE WEST is a true surprise – and it reminds me a lot of those old import CDs of “The Peel Sessions” that I’d hunt down from various bands (including PRONG) 20-25 years ago. It’s something for the hardcore fans, but a fine overview that just might hook new listeners, though they’d have to find it first.
The album is available now, direct from the band via Bandcamp for $10 (or extra if you’re feeling generous), with proceeds going direct to band operations without a label.
The Rock Father Rating: 4/5 Stars
Need more PRONG? Pre-Order RUINING LIVES, or stock up via (my affiliate) Amazon:
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