The Cranberries - Beneath the Skin: Live in Paris
Recorded in December 1999 before a massive and wildly enthusiastic  French audience, this Cranberries concert is remarkable testimony to the Irish  band's seasoning, evolving confidence, and heightened sense of fun in the years  since the release of their breakthrough hit singles ("Linger," "Zombie," "Ode to  My Family," all performed here). Fans who saw the Limerick-born group's early- '90s tours recognized in singer-songwriter Dolores O'Riordan equal parts gamine,  witch, and an inspirational incarnation of W.B. Yeats's Glimmering Girl. Now,  however,Beneath the Skin: Live in Parisunderscores O'Riordan's more  relaxed, womanly stage presence, as well as a rounder, fuller sound from  founding members Mike Hogan (bass), his brother Noel Hogan (guitar), and drummer  Fergal Lawler.Strutting at various times in a flowing robe, leather mini-skirt, or white  pants, the diminutive O'Riordan leads the Cranberries through an overview of  their Celtic-tinged, alternately jangly or thrashing repertoire. As always,  they're at their best when they reach beyond O'Riordan's tendencies toward  lyrical self-congratulation. When they don't, a bit of monotony fogs up the  proceedings. When they do, however, which is frequently inBeneath the  Skin, the Cranberries demonstrate exquisite pop craftsmanship ("Just My  Imagination," not to be confused with the Temptations' classic) and ferocity of  spirit ("Animal Instinct"). In any case, the passionate Parisian audience at  this show amplifies the band's thorny glories while, paradoxically, easing them  into a comfortable encounter with stardom. All in all, this is a must for  Cranberries fans and a multifaceted introduction to the group for everyone else.--Tom Keogh