EXODUS - Double Live Dynamo (DVD)

Release date November 3, 2007 (Zaentz)

Review originally published in Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles Magazine #109

Basically a tribute to Paul Baloff, Exodus have issued a live DVD including two shows from The Dynamo in Holland from 85 and 97, with the late singer fronting the band. The earlier show captures a very young looking Exodus touring its Bonded By Blood debut in front of a braying packed club, while the more recent concert sees a much more battle-worn unit crushing a huge Dynamo festival audience. While this latter show sports superior audio and visuals (the older show is a single cam shoot), the 85 document really is the highlight of this package.

Firstly, it's way cool to see the clearly stoked and hungry whippersnappers ripping Holland a new one, staking itself a name in the then-fledgling thrash metal market. Secondly, the earlier show contains three rarities in the form of 'Hells Breath', 'Deathrow' and 'Impaler'. Lastly, Baloff's performance at the later gig is below expectations, clearly being under the influence of the demon alcohol &/or drugs.

Whatever, this is a no brainer for those who consider Bonded By Blood to be one of the thrash metal classic albums of all time and a fitting sendoff for Baloff. Nice touch with the reference to Ted Nugent's Double Live Gonzo in the title and calligraphy too.

(8)

Update: RIP Paul Baloff. (8)