Go for It Live
Largely unsung heroes outside their Southern Cal base--and Germany; go figure--Fu Manchu has fused their fetish for metal riffing with driving, skate-punk energy, creating a full bore sonic assault that rivalsMonster Magnetin every way but wider public renown. This double-disc live collection (recorded in ‘02 dates on theCalifornia Crossingtour) may well be the perfect introduction for those unfamiliar with the band's manic, groove-metal charms. Highlighted by Bob Balch's relentless riffing, Scott Hill's tireless vocal energy, and the monster rhythm section of bassist Brad Davis and drummer Scott Reeder, it's an energetic live anthology of the band's decade of cult recording successes. More rewarding, it's a showcase for their famously blistering live act --and one of the best sounding live albums in recent memory--giving armchair listeners blast-in-the-face doses of everything from fan faves like "Boogie Van," "Laserblast," and "Hell on Wheels" to a good-natured romp throughBlue Oyster Cult's obviously inspirational "Godzilla."--Jerry McCulley