It’s only fitting that a live album by the Misfits would start off with the group’s fans—often called “fiends”—cheering for the band to come on stage. The Misfits, with an illustrious 30-plus year career, have made a living performing for their fans, creating an alternate reality where horror reigns. Two shows in particular comprise this album: an Oct. 30, 2011 show at the Starland Ballroom, and a Halloween night performance at the B.B. King Blues Club in Times Square. Vocalist/bassist Jerry Only, along with drummer Eric “Chupacabra” Arce and guitarist Dez Cadena, relive the latest period of the Misfits by performing songs from Famous Monsters, American Psycho, and the most recent album, The Devil’s Rain.
While this makeup of the band may not have played some Danzig-era classics, that didn’t stop them from rocking during their favorite time of the year. This live compilation features six songs off the 2011 record, The Devil’s Rain. The self-titled track features a lead solo that flourishes as Only maintains rhythm on the bass. “Vivid Red” then kicks the record into gear in their typical upbeat punk fashion. “Land Of The Dead” is a fast track with Only showing his vocal prowess over the driving riffs.
Cadena continues his use of fast riffs and technical fretwork throughout “Curse Of The Mummy’s Hand” and “Cold In Hell.” “Dark Shadows” demonstrates Only’s striking vocals, while Arce displays his chops on the drums. 1997’s American Psycho features three songs here: the self-titled track, “Dig Up Her Bones,” and “Shining.” 1999’s Famous Monsters rounds out the live record with “Scream!,” “Helena,” and “Saturday Night,” along with the band’s rendition of “Science Fiction/Double Feature” from The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
Although this lineup might not produce the music some are used to, they remain legends in the horror rock genre, influencing bands with every effort.
In A Word: Theatrical
