Live at the Bayside Social Club,
Bayside
Like with Comeback Kid's live album, this is essential listening if you're a fan of Bayside. Live albums are never really a good way of experiencing a band for the first time and I wouldn't recommend this as a reference point for Bayside. But if you're already familiar with the band check this out for sure. It's very slick sounding, perhaps a little too slick in places. Anthony Ranieri's vocals are spot on - studio quality almost - and the setlist is also nicely balanced between the albums (although there's a lack of new, new stuff).
'Devotion and Desire', 'Duality' and 'Carry On' are all present and correct and delivered with a little extra edge than they are on record. But what is most noticeable is the fact Bayside have really grown as a band in the last 2 or 3 years. The first album is good, but they've really progressed in a way I didn't think they could. They're no longer a band living in the shadow of other bands from their hometown. No more lazy comparisons from journalists saying they sound like Alkaline Trio either.
Bayside are one of my favourite bands of the year and their growth is really encouraging. This live record isn't their best release but it's still a lot of fun.
» Official Website
