After all of the punk, metal, alternative rock and jazz gets to sounding the same, and I need a break, I put in this disc. Recorded live in Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C. on June 15 & 16, 1995, this disc serves as proof the band has been pigeon-holed as a band that has 1) no talent and 2) nothing to offer to the world except mushy love songs.

While I can agree with number 2, I can't agree with #1. Talent? Graham Russell can hit the most amazing high notes without shrilling his voice. A clear tone that makes him one of my favorite vocalists.

Not my favorite. One of my favorites.

The set list covers the band's greatest hits from the piano intro of "Making Love Out Of Nothing At All" through the soaring violins in "All Out Of Love." Their cover of "Unchained Melody" showcases the tag team of Russell and Russell Hitchcock. Never has a group with two vocalists sounded more in synch with each other than these two.

Of the tracks here, "Chances" is my favorite. I am pleased it is the second track instead of being buried. Never released as a single, I've always thought it was their best ballad. My other favorite Air Supply ballad, "My Best Friend" is missing as is their rocker "American Hearts," both from Lost In Love.

While this disc is unlikely to make anyone believe Air Supply should have been labeled the next Rush, it is fair to say there is talent. And like a contemporary to Chicago, they are worth checking out live. (The Chicago concert I saw in the summer of 1987 ranks in my top five concerts I've ever seen.)

Besides, who else can you take your girlfriend/wife to in concert, knowing what will happen later?

Rating: B+

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