It is great to hear Painkiller live as it is quite different to the studio work. They are a very original concept for a band and their music still sounds fresh over 10 years later. By the time this was recorded their playing had developed from the first two albums and Mick Harris and Bill Laswell's interest in dark dub really helps shape the music between the extreme free hardcore/jazz improvisation which seems to be Zorn's burning interest.
Live the music isn't as edited as on the albums so you get the great moments as well as the not so happening ones. Overall it is worth the effort for the times when things really click. On this recording as opposed to the hard to find "Rituals", the playing seems more important than being "evil" sounding and screaming a lot which Zorn often tends to do.
The sound is the only drawback, as it sounds like a DAT from the mixing desk which means it is very clear, but that means there isn't anywhere near enough bass in the mix (as Laswell was probably very loud in the room) which requires some considerable EQ on playback to try and compensate. What is amazing is hearing Oz Fritz live dub mixing which is rare to hear being done to that extent with a live band, especially an improvising one.
This release adds another interesing dimension to Painkiller's recorded output and just shows how great they could be.
4 1/2 stars-- burning live show.