Live!

Dismissed by rock critics but adored by its fans, Head East was the quintessential Midwestern arena rock outfit of the 1970s. Head East, for the most part, wasn't the most challenging band in the world; the St. Louis natives lacked the complexity of progressive rockers, and they weren't nearly as provocative and daring as punk, new wave, and heavy metal artists. But when it came to delivering hook-laden arena rock that was both melodic and invigorating, Head East reigned supreme. Although the band's studio efforts were its biggest sellers, Head East's most essential release is this excellent live album from 1979. Recorded in several cities during a late 1970s tour (including Dallas, Milwaukee, Kansas City, and hometown St. Louis), this two-LP set has no problem illustrating the vitality of Head East's live shows. Most of the rockers' best songs are performed, including "Fly by Night Lady," "Monkey Shine," "City of Gold," "Jefftown Creek," and the hit "Never Been Any Reason", and equally memorable is a performance of the Beatles' "It's for You." Most of Head East's studio albums are worth owning, but if you could only have one Head East album in your collection, Live would be the best choice by far. ~ Alex Henderson