If I’m completely honest, I wasn’t going to do a review of the Prisoners (Live) by Ryan Adams, but then the saxophone in “Prisoner” happened and I knew it needed to be written.
Live albums or live recordings in general can be great ways to connect to fans who haven’t seen an artist live or might not get to experience a live performance. It gives fans a taste of what it’s like to be standing in the crowd with others, but seeing a band live can also showcase a litany of flaws of an artist or band. I recently saw a band whose entire set was tracked, from vocals to guitars to bass to drums, and while I don’t see fault in tracking shows when needed, the band was so blitzed out of their minds it was more like watching a bunch of fools playing Rockband. Badly.
Prisoners (Live) though only showcases a litany of reasons why one must catch Ryan Adams live at least once in their life.
I had the pleasure of seeing Ryan’s Prisoner Tour when it came to Sydney in 2017 and Prisoners (Live) instantly took me back to that show and experience.
Prisoners (Live) like all of Ryan’s live albums capture the raw talent the man possesses. It also allows for a nuanced experience that only a live show can provide.
Like the saxophone in “Prisoner”. Christ almighty. The saxophone combined with the harmonica on “Prisoner” is absolutely stunning. It made me want Ryan to use more saxophone in his songs. The instrument compliments his music and voice beautifully.
Another stand out track is “Outbound Train”, the song feels brighter, the bass is heavier, and Ryan’s vocals are more full emotion than the studio album.
If one can’t get to see Ryan live, Prisoners (Live) allows one to experience an intimate and emotional portrait of a man that wears his heart and emotions on his sleeves.
MUST LISTEN TRACKS: “Prisoners”, “To Be With You”, “Anything I Saw to You Now”, “Outbound Train”
Read our review of 1985 :: Heatwave :: Star Sign :: Sword & Stone. Get Prisoners (Live) on vinyl.
