Classic Live Stops In Nmb, New DVD to be titled "LIVE, LIVE" Options

[jaybb]

Classic Live stops in NMB
Band still going after 20 years, 20 million in sales
By Ashley Morris - For The Sun News

More than 20 years and 20 million album sales later, Live is still together.

Frontman Ed Kowalczyk, guitarist Chad Taylor, bass player Patrick Dahlheimer and drummer Chad Gracey have not only maintained a fiercely loyal U.S. following - Public Affection began in the 1980s (visit the fan club site at www.friendsoflive.com for proof) - but are also an international attraction. In June, Live recorded its first in-concert album and DVD concert movie before sold-out crowds in Amsterdam, although the set has not yet been released. A follow-up summer tour has Live heading to the Grand Strand tonight at the House of Blues and wrapping it up with a finale in Atlanta on Sunday with Collective Soul and Blues Traveler.

Live's latest recording is the 2007 self-released collection of oldies but goodies, "Radiant Sea."

Soulful, spiritual, but always rock solid, Live specializes in intensely heartfelt music and lyrics.

Local rock act Silenced will open for Live tonight, and singer/songwriter/guitarist Jeremy Dunham is pumped.

"I'd have to say, I probably wouldn't be the songwriter I am today without them," said Dunham. "They were my first concert at age 15 when I first started writing. 'Throwing Copper' was worn thin from not leaving my CD player in over a year."

Kicks caught up with Live's Kowalczyk via e-mail, and the singer reflected on the effect of his spirituality on his career, his waning angst over the years and what you can expect from Live in the future.

Question | What does the sound and feel of the live DVD say about Live today, nearly 20 years after first forming?

Answer | I believe the sound and feel of this DVD will surprise a lot of people. It will be especially surprising to the folks who haven't seen Live in a long time. We're really better than ever and have continued to grow in leaps and bounds since the '90s.

Q. | Any more details available as to the name of DVD/CD and release date?

A. | Look for this DVD and live album to come out mid-October 2008. As to the name, it will more than likely just be "LIVE LIVE." I mean, with a name like ours, you have to call at least one of your albums that!

Q. | You've always had a beautiful way with words in your music - how does the world speak to you nowadays?

A. | The world speaks to me today as it always has: a combination of amazing inspiration, beauty and joy, as well as the devastating obviousness of lost opportunity and human limitations on love.

Q. | Any plans off-stage while you're here in Myrtle Beach?

A. | We have a day off in Myrtle Beach, and I'll be in the ocean!

Q. | I know you've become friends with "American Idol" alum Chris Daughtry, who was a huge fan of Live. Are there any other new musicians you have a connection with musically or personally?

A. | I generally keep to myself when it comes to other musicians, unless, of course, there's a cool reason to get to know them. With Chris, it was a combination of coincidences that led us to be friends.

Q. | Have you accomplished what you've wanted to accomplish in your stellar music career? If not, over what hurdle do you still feel you need to jump?

A. | Stay tuned, I'm just getting started!

[J.Sax]

I figured they may call it Live. It works for me!

This post has been edited by J.Sax: Aug 16 2008, 12:12 am