GRAHAM PARKER & THE FIGGS/THE LAST ROCK N ROLL TOUR (Razor & Tie RT 2827-2)

Graham Parker returns with a great live set, which, while containing 7 songs from his latest release, Acid Bubblegum, still manages to span his entire career. The Last Rock N Roll Tour boasts a hefty 22 tracks, all of which were recorded on one night of his 1996 Acid Bubblegum tour.

On this outing Parker was backed up by The Figgs, a straight ahead rock band that puts in a solid performance here. The Figgs consist of Mike Gent and Guy Lyons on guitars and vocals, Pete Donnelly on bass and vocals, and Pete Hayes on drums. The Figgs aren’t fancy but they get the job done.

I’ve tended to listen to this disc straight through each time because the momentum never ceases at all. Parker is energetic and seems to be enjoying himself throughout. The performance consists of 20 GP tunes and covers of Prince’s "Cream" and Chuck Berry’s "Around And Around."

Anyone who enjoys a straight, no-frills, live rock set should like this disc. If your already a fan of Graham Parker and his take-no-prisoners songwriting style this one is just another great addition to your collection. Enjoy.