Just about every band has (at least) one nestling in their catalogue. Invariably, many bands will have a plethora of un-licensed, un-authorised Live albums drawn from all parts of their carrer, often of varying quality (most of these “cheap” alternatives are usually pretty band sound wise, if I’m honest).

Of the many I have owned. heard, and in some cases stated “… and I was there”, one of the best is Motorhead – No Sleep Til Hammersmith. Despite the suggestion in the title, the album was recorded in Leeds and Newcastle in early 1981 (the tour was only five dates long, and never actually got to Hammersmith). The band is the “classic” Motorhead line-up of Lemmy, Fast Eddie Clarke and Phil ‘Philthy Animal’ Taylor. The album captures the band at the top of their game doing what they do best – playing very fast, very loud, full of energy and commitment to an uproarious and appreciative crowd. As a Live Album, it is just about perfect.

Other nominations for Best (and Worst) Live Albums, please?

http://i1062.photobucket.com/albums/t490/Rigid_Digit/No_Sleep_til_Hammersmith_zpsu79zyqhs.jpg