It’s all about sex with The B-52s and I believe they’re sexier than ever as they returned to the stage last February in their hometown of Athens, GA, to celebrate their 34-year anniversary. Everything was recorded on their special night for those who missed this one-of-a-kind performance. With The Wild Crowd! Live In Athens, GA is the first official live release from America’s favorite dance party group featuring 18 tracks, some old, some new, band introductions and quality sound.
The B-52s prove on their recent drop they’re tighter than ever providing fans with their distinct sound and original band members. Keith Strickland performs on guitar, while Fred Schneider, Kate Pierson and Cindy Wilson create their signature call and response on vocals. Special guests include Paul Gordon on second guitar, Tracy Wormworth on bass and drummer Sterling Campbell.
“Pump” and “Private Idaho” kicks off the show getting everyone in the mood to swing their hips, while “Mesopotamia” and “Ultraviolet” sends those who remember right back into the new wave era. Meanwhile, “Give Me Back My Man,” “Funplex,” “Whammy Kiss” and “Roam” were the classics of the night. What’s nice about this live album is the fact that they still include the communication between the band and audience. Between songs, Schneider, Pierson and Wilson work the crowd, throwing out hints of what is to come next.
With the B-52s, it’s more than a concert, it’s a huge party as they start up “Party Out Of Bounds” and heat up the night even hotter with “Love In The Year 3000,” “Cosmic Thing” and “Hot Corner.” Saving the best for last is “Love Shack” and “Rock Lobster.” Old hits become new again.
In A Word: Boisterous
