Crowbar

Originally released in 1994 on Pavement Records, this live effort features the same lineup as Crowbar, released the year before: Kirk Windstein (vocals/guitars), Craig Nunemacher (drums), Matt Thomas (guitars), and Todd Strange on bass. The record was recorded in February of 1994 in the band's hometown at the New Orleans Music Hall, and features songs from Crowbar and a previously unreleased studio track, "Numb Sensitive," which was later re-recorded for Time Heals Nothing. The recording is at a level consistent with the band's studio releases. Windstein and Thomas' guitars are supremely heavy in tone and tightness, and Nunemacher plays with an intensity and openness that might even be a slight improvement over his studio efforts. Like most live recordings, this probably isn't the best way for new listeners to discover exactly what the group is about, but fans of Crowbar will want to add this to their collections, as the subtle yet clear distinctions in the performances make a difference that gives the disc an excitement and urgency that's quite enjoyable. [Live + 1 was re-released on Spitfire Records in 2000 in an edition featuring the bonus track "4 Walls."] ~ Vincent Jeffries, All Music Guide