The Outsiders - 30 Years Live (CD)

All Music Guide

This CD is something more than a cash-in effort by a '60s outfit on the oldies circuit, although it is that too. Guitarist/backup singer Tom King is one of two original members on hand for the two 1991 shows (one from Cleveland and one in Las Vegas) whose highlights comprise this disc; guitarist Walt Nims, who has worked with King in various bands since 1958 (and wrote "Preciousand Few"), is here also. The performances aren't bad, and instead of concentrating on the Outsiders' biggest hits, they throw in cool album tracks like "Good Lovin'" (performed on Happening Live), "Wine Wine Wine" and "Since I Lost My Baby" as well as failed singles ("I'll Give You Time") and obscure B-sides like "Was It Really Real" and "Lost In My World," all in spirited performances that show a certain degree of spontaneity. Additionally, they cover familiar songs by '60s contemporaries such as the Rascals ("Come on Up"), in versions that are enjoyable and lively. They do sort of blow it when they add a curre...nt Walt Nims composition, "Five Steps Forward," which isn't anything special, sung by Nims. It's a few minutes of wasted time on what is otherwise one of the better live discs of its kind that one is likely to see from a revived '60s act. - Bruce Eder, All Music Guide Read more Less