Winger have currently released their first ever live offering in both CD and DVD versions. The DVD edition has already been reviewed elsewhere on HardRockHouse and so this review offers a non-visual perspective on things. 

The CD was recorded on the US leg of their 2007 reunion tour with a line-up consisting of Kip Winger, Reb Beach, Rod Morgenstein and John Roth. As referred to in our DVD review, it is strange to note that the double CD offering does not include one of Winger’s standout track, “Hungry” which appears on the DVD and conversely the audio version does include an acoustic bonus track, “Blue Suede Shoes” which does not feature on the DVD. 

The set list mixes up a few tunes from the last album, IV, but primarily is made up of one instantly recognizable Winger classic after another. The strength of the song writing that the band have delivered over the years is really quite exceptional and is very much hammered home when coming hot on each other’s heels in this type of setting. It’s easy to see why they sold just so many records when you hear this type of “greatest hits” collection of songs. 

The sound quality is very good throughout and the band seemed to have put on a storming performance which is evident from the snatched audience reaction you get to hear from time to time. Reb and Rod both get their own solo spots, giving each the chance to show what consummate musicians they both are. 

Kip Winger also chooses to “sing” the songs rather than shout them out, James Hetfield style, as he did during their now infamous Firefest III appearance and they are certainly all the better for this approach.

A couple of the slight negative points in the DVD version are of course absent when just listening to the CD, these being “arty” jumps from colour to black & white footage and also Kip seated at the keyboard and thus not fronting the band. Definite plus points for the CD version therefore. Of course, like all other live CDs however, you do not get the benefit of the visuals which I always think help draw you more into the live experience. 

As live CDs go, though, this is certainly one of the better ones I’ve heard, thanks in part due to the quality of performance but mostly just the sheer quality of the songs on offer.

Paul Williams