Kingcrimsonprog
Marilyn Manson will always cause people's eyes to roll; either people with enough taste to see through his poorly thought out faux intellectualism; or people with a strong enough prejudice to simply write off everything the man does because of his numerous low points and cheesy gimmicks.
This live album is one of the best live albums in recent times; with an energetic performance, a smooth production and a great track list.
Live; the band come across as more talented, expanding and improving upon already good songs 'I don't like the Drugs,' and 'The Reflecting God,' being good examples.
The excellent and artistic songwriting of the Mechanical Animals tunes comes across really well here; but songs like 'Get your Gunn,' and even the usual unbearable 'Sweet Dreams,' (which many people will roll their eyes at) sound not just forgivable, but fantastical in their energetic and expanded live forms.
Highlights include an energetic version of 'Rock is Dead,' and a very good rendition of 'Antichrist Superstar.'
Sure Goths and Twelve-year-olds will always flock to Manson, but that shouldn't stop everyone else from enjoying his work. Manson is a great artist who may have some flaws... but the pros far outweigh the cons.
In summary, if you like Manson you will love this, and if you don't it will prove to you why you should, and how you could condone overwriting your preconceived notions about this awesome performer.