COME HELL OR HIGH WATER

From time to time I have gone back to revisit this performance by MK II. On both; CD as well as the DVD releases. I've owned them since their release, but due to the emphasis being predominantly on Blackmore throwing water on the cameramen, I have missed the high level of the performance the band puts on. It is true by the bands' own admission that they had to work "extra hard". Perhaps that is the reason why this performance is somewhat different from the handful of others out there. All of the members have picked up their level a little extra. As far as Richie goes, he is being himself. His standards, as we all know, are quite high, so it does not hurt the show. It might even add to it a little. Having seen most of these songs performed n'teen times in the past over the years, from numerous live performances official and not. It is rather interesting to experience how an experienced band of guys can make it happen, and hardly miss a beat, giving the audience their value. Note: the DVD has a few more tracks on it than the CD release. The set list is impressive, "Anyone's Daughter" is a special treat from Fireball, and the sound quality is outstanding. Yes, Blackmore is in some what of a foul mood at the start, but having said that, it effects ONLY the first few minutes of Highway Star. If anything, it is exciting to see the slightly different (organ heavy) version of this track. Now I wish the CD reflected the rest of the tracks found on the DVD, I actually miss them.