This nicely packaged 2CD/DVD live package combo by British rockers Thunder shows that these guys are still firing on all cylinders and most capable of delivering a kick-ass show that other bands can only dream of doing. With a set list that encompasses and covers pretty much the entire career and discography of the band, there is no shortage of crunchy guitars and crashing drums on this one.

 There is a raw quality to “Stage” that is charming and something very real and passionate about the whole thing. It simply comes across as honest, enthusiastic, and full of conviction.

There is also confidence to how these veterans manage to walk that fine line between being disciplined and tight on the one hand and loose and groovy on the other. Then again, this is Thunder that we are talking about and not some rookie act. Nothing sounds polished or touched up in the studio and with the aforementioned set list being so varied and well put together, it is no wonder that the crowd is with the band all the way and that both parties seem to be enjoying themselves immensely. There is certainly some great interaction between the two throughout the show. Thunder plow through such standout cuts as “River of Pain”, the groovy “Backstreet Symphony”, the hypnotizing “In Another Life”, the heartfelt classic “Love Walked In”, and the glorious rock anthem that is “Wonder Days”, just to list a few examples. The DVD is nicely shot and captures the excitement and action-packed vibe of the gig perfectly. The stage set looks great, the band have plenty of charisma, and the fans are amazing. The only thing missing is a little more low-end and bombast, but that might be down to the mixing and production of the albums and DVD. The DVD contains roughly half an hour of funny yet interesting interviews with all the members of Thunder. Definitely worth watching.

 “Stage” may not be an essential release as such, but it is a highly solid, entertaining, and atmospheric live collection that every fan of the band ought to check out. It is riveting in places, trust me on that.

 

www.thunderonline.com/