Believe it or not, Chris de Burgh performs extremely well live, carrying out his ballads and story-songs with genuine passion and enthusiasm. With High on Emotion, de Burgh plays to a crowd to which he has close ties, since he attended Trinity College in Dublin after moving there from Argentina. This sets the stage for a very entertaining album, as he covers a favorable blend of love songs and musical tales, pulling some of his better material from out of the past. de Burgh sings such classics as "A Spaceman Came Travelling," "Don't Pay the Ferryman," and "Patricia the Stripper" with a collected vigor played out in his trademarked classy style. "Spanish Train" is the album's magnum opus, complete with haunting guitar and a mood-perfect vocal execution from de Burgh, proving it's one his favorites as well. The slower songs are heartfelt also, even in front of a live audience. "Risen Lord" and the famous "Lady in Red" are charming pieces, while "Sailing Away" and "Missing You" flow wonderfully through the crowd and are excellent choices for a live show. His most energetic single, "High on Emotion," ends the album perfectly, releasing any intensity that de Burgh had left. Live From Dublin exhibits both sides of Chris de Burgh, proving that his style of music is just as earnest in a live environment as on a studio album.
© Mike DeGagne /TiVo