Various Artists - Rob Roy - A Live Compilation (Album)
There’s something so warm and real about the Rob Roy. And this compilation reflects that.
The last live CD I bought sounded live, there was minimal balance between the instruments, the vocals were drowned out by the crowd, basically it was everything that a live CD should and shouldn’t be. Rob Roy: A Live Compilation is the ideal recording of live music. There’s minimal crowd noise, and the music is unstructured enough for you to know that it’s live – having only seen three of the six bands on this disc live I appreciated this a lot.
I’ve always had a soft spot for My Disco – there is just something about their post-punk sensibilities that resonates with me. This is probably coupled with the memories of seeing them play rundown art galleries in Brisbane. 'Installation of Camaraderie' doesn’t quite capture their stage show, but it is a solid starting track for the compilation.
Having never seen International Karate live I found that this track was perhaps a bit too long (8:03), but I will probably go and see them next time they play the Rob Roy. I’ll be better qualified then to have an opinion on their music. Having said that, if this track made me want to go to a show then it’s pretty much done its job…
Grey Daturas are definitely my highlight of this compilation. There’s a certain je ne sai quoi about this band. They’re tight and distinct and novel without being “trendy”, and you can hear them saying thanks to the crowd at the end of the track.
The general vibe of Rob Roy: A Live Compilation is one of near new noise. All six bands bring something different to the table, reflecting the line-ups at the Rob Roy. More venues should do this, although I’m not sure how many of them would come off sounding this clear… My fingers are crossed for the coming of The Tote: A Live Compilation. There’s definitely series potential here (I hope someone listens to that).
