Motörhead's album Aftershock was originally released in 2013 and is an enjoyable ode to rock n roll with more than the occasional nod to heavy metal thrown in. Heartbreaker, Lost Woman Blues and Paralyzed demonstrates that the band can still pack a punch and there is some superb footwork and licks from Mikkey Dee and Phil 'Wizzo' Campbell. Aftershock may not be their best work, but as the title suggests, it's the musical ripple of an influential rock earthquake that has been at the epicentre of Motörhead for nearly 40 years!
The re-issued Aftershock Tour Edition coincides with the bands upcomingUK dates, so it's inevitable that the release will have some commercial benefit. Of course it's great news that Lemmy is now back in business and able to perform again after having to cancel a string of shows due to ill health. Sadly the signs of the Rock God dipping his toe in the mortal realm is very telling on his voice which seems to be taking the strain on this recording. Let's be honest here, he's no Gillan or Plant, but on the live edition it's clear that the bloke is in difficulty on several of the tracks, most noticeably I Know How To Die and Killed By Death. The dude is a rock legend and we have a special place inour blackened rock hearts for him, which is why this bonus disc does not do him justice.
When he is on form the band sound simply awesome and the set list is pretty good too with songs like Damage Case, Lost Woman Blues, Rock It and Overkill. It was a bit disappointing (or a Crying Shame) that the set missed some of the best tracks from Aftershock; Coup De Grace and Do You Believe, but you can't have everything.
Grumbles aside, for the completist it's worth a purchase, but otherwise stick with the original release and if you must get a Motörhead live album there are better releases which show the band in all their excessive rock and roll glory.