New England, Greatest Hits Live CD Review on Rock N Roll Universe

Back in August of 1979 I went to see Kiss in concert in support of their ‘Dynasty’ album and was lucky enough to have 5th row from the stage seats. New England opened that show and they rocked the house. A few days later I picked up their debut album which was produced by Paul Stanley of Kiss and proceeded to wear the grooves out of the vinyl record.

Almost 28 years later New England is back with the fantastic ‘Greatest Hits Live’ album which revisits basically the entire debut album along with 3 tunes from their 1980 release ‘Explorer Suite,’ including the title track off of that album.’ Greatest Hits Live’ grabs the listener from the introduction “…Ladies & Gentlemen,Please welcome New England!" all the way through the entire 12 song collection.The vocals of guitarist John Fannon often remind me of Ian Hunter throughout the CD especially on “The Last Show”. New England’s sound is well orchestrated by keyboardist Jimmy Waldo who really stands out on the opening track “Alone Tonight”,”Encore” and “P.U.N.K.”(which features some outstanding drumming by Hirsh Gardner).The highlight of the CD is the 1979 single,”Don’t Ever Wanna Lose Ya” which should have brought New England to the top of the charts.

This CD is great as it brings me back to the times in the late 70’s/early 80’s when I was heavily listening to New England and other bands from that era such as Angel, Starz, April Wine, Journey and Foreigner.