Primus

Hallucino-Genetics Live 2004

BY Stuart GreenPublished Dec 1, 2004

Since the three original members of the punk-funk answer to Rush reunited in 2003, something just hasn't been right. Sure musically they're as tight as ever, but live their gigs come across more like a technically perfect but joyless necessity than a labour of love. There's absolutely no dynamic between them outside of the fact they're all playing the same song at the same time. Even the "jam" parts of the show seem rehearsed. If it weren't for some great visual distractions, in the form of moody lighting and video backdrops, there'd be no reason to venture beyond your home CD player to get a dose of the band. And that's exactly what this first full-length concert video from the band captures. Shot in Chicago on the last North American date of the most recent tour, this crisp and clear video gives the viewer the feeling of being at the gig. While superbly shot and edited, with crystal clear sound, it's too good. It drives home the point that there's absolutely no interaction between the members anymore. It's just a little too antiseptic and perfect, much like the reunited band's performances. Fans will surely love this bare-bones, extras-free, two-and-a-half-hour document and may have already come to terms with the fact that Les, Ler and Herb are going through the motions devoid of emotion. But those hoping to see the three talented musicians let loose and show us what they've got will surely be disappointed. (Red, www.redmusic.com)

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