ROKY ERICKSON and the EXPLOSIVES -- Halloween, Live 1979-1981 In a word, this CD is bitchin’. In two words, it is absolutely bitchin’. Spanning only three years, this period is far from the most important part of Mr. Erickson’s legacy. However, these 17 gems recorded live at legendary clubs such as the Whisky a Go-Go, are as cutting as a chainsaw through butter, and as powerful as a Kenworth going 110 down I-35. Packing a punch that sent me to the floor on the first listen, I am having trouble typing this review, as I’ve barely made it back to one knee. For rock n roll to be great, the energy has to be controlled just enough for it to seem out of control. Few bands can do that, and still fewer can keep that spirit alive. Halloween has that element, and it is prevalent throughout. From the revved up "You’re Gonna to miss Me" to the raw blues of "The Beast", this is unquestionably real music that reminded me of what rock n roll really feels like, just when I was starting to forget on the watered down diet the major labels have me on. This CD is a must hear not only for fans of Mr. Erickson, but for any fan interested in the family tree of rock. You can bet your life savings this will be on my top 10 of 2008, Darling. 9.5 Daisy Stars Daisy’s Favorite Lyric: "I’ve been working in the Kremlin with a two headed dog"