Essential: Guns N´Roses Live at the Ritz, 1988
Alejandro De Luna
Before Axl Rose became a depressing clown and the biggest shame in rock ‘n’ roll, this pervert was the most transgressive frontman in the 80s, and without a doubt, one of the greats of all time. A psychotic drug addict; a gigolo with a bipolar disorder and a unique voice. Before Guns N´Roses became a disgraceful tribute band (caused by Mr. Rose´s ego) and one of the biggest humiliations in rock history, this gang of ugly and filthy criminals – fueled in industrial quantities of alcohol, amphetamines and other class A drugs – was the stereotype of those rock ‘n’ roll bands that your parents ordered you to step away. Considered “the world’s most dangerous band”, these ugly freaks were the real deal and not just a bunch of untalented drug addict posers (yes, I´m talking to you, Motley Crue.)
Live at the Roxy from 1988 is the jelly of Guns N´Roses. In top form and after the release of their legendary debut, Appetite For Destruction – certainly their best shot – this show recorded in a small and filthy venue in New York City, includes the classic lineup of the band: Axl Rose (vocals), Duff McKagan (bass), Steven “popcorn” Adler (drums), Izzy Stradlin (rhythm guitar) and Slash (lead guitar.)
During the whole show, the band – at their rawest – is totally pissed and swimming into a sea of dissonant madness and decadence. Just stories about cheap girls, sex, drugs and a despise for life enriched by one the best vocals of all time, distorted guitars and violent riffs, heavy solos, destructive drums and a badass attitude from a gang of nobodies that could easily be the bastard sons of another gang of degenerates called The New York Dolls.
This is the show of a a band with nothing to lose rather than their life on the stage – that´s the only thing that they have. Just uncompromised rock ‘n’ roll from this bunch of degraded humans carrying in their backs, a despise for “Hair Metal” and their love for Zeppelin, The Stones, Dylan, Thin Lizzy, Queen, T. Rex, The Dolls, Alice Cooper, AC/DC, Aerosmith, The Stooges and a lustful desire for drugs, violence and sex. Just beautiful.
You just need the Appetite For Destruction and this show. Enjoy it.
Setlist
