Search - Ra :: Raw: Live

Great song selection, production values, and performances

Christopher Random | Dallas, TX USA | 05/14/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"4.5 * overall



This is an excellent live CD with one minor criticism. I find it difficult to rate this 5 stars for the simple fact that the first song has an extended lead-in with an emcee introducing the band. I really don't want to listen to that everytime I spin the CD, and while I can fastforward through it to get straight to the music, I still find it annoying. That said, I can still recommend this with almost no reservations.



I've been a fan of RA ever since I heard "Fallen Angels" on their Myspace profile. It's been a love affair ever since (I have a tattoo to prove it).



Having actually seen Ra in concert recently, I can say that this album captures their live sound very well. The production is great, erring on the side of overproduction, if anything. That's fine in my book. I don't want to listen to a live album where it's difficult to separate all the instruments. You know the type. Everything is all mashed together into a big sonic soup. Doesn't work for me. This album has no such problems, though you may find it a bit perfect for a live album if you like such things a bit "messier".



The vocal performance of Sahaj sparkles and captivates. All the instrumental performances are immaculate. I can't think of a single criticism in that department.



The song selection is great, covering most of my favorites. I particularly liked this rendition of Superman. The addition of the "Ludacris Rap" at the end of Skorn is awesome. I'm not a big rap fan, but I liked it- as I generally do enjoy when bands add extra verses to songs for live performances. It's like they're giving a little something extra to their adoring fans.



Last, but not least, this album contains the addition of a new Ra studio track called, "Don't Turn Away". I love this song. I had the privilege of hearing it performed live in Dallas before the album was even released. How awesome it was to be able to sing along to it and pump my fist at all the right times from having heard it off their Myspace page. Good stuff.



I highly recommend this album if you're a fan of Ra, or just live rock albums in general."

RAW - LIVE

Claudia Farley | NJ | 11/03/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a terrific album, especially since it was recorded "live". This band is just awesome - every member is extremely talented. Sahaj's voice is amazing and ranks up there with the very best in the business, and his musicians are 1st class as well. The music is innovative and fresh. The quality of the CD is exceptional."

Why isn't Ra more known?

Mike | Baltimore | 07/02/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Ra is an amazing band with an exceptionally unique sound, and should be receiving a lot more attention than they are currently receiving. This CD is LIVE?? When Ra performs live it is so close to the studio is incredible. This whole band is extremely talented and I hope to hear more from them in the future."