Named after the slang term for a melodica (a combination keyboard/wind instrument), the
Hooters often placed acoustic instruments at the forefront of their sound, years before the term "unplugged" was coined. As such, it makes sense that
Both Sides Live is a double-disc CD showcasing the band in two different settings -- one a raucous electric gig in front of a packed house in
the Hooters' home town of Philadelphia, the other an intimate live-in-the-studio acoustic performance given for 35 lucky fans. Both shows feature a nice mix of the group's big '80s hits ("All You Zombies," "Day by Day"), fan favorites ("South Ferry Road"), and songs from the excellent 2007 "comeback" record
Time Stand Still. The concerts find the reunited, mostly classic lineup in fine form and as energetic as ever, but performing with the added subtlety that only a veteran band can deliver. The acoustic session benefits from pristine sound, allowing
Rob Hyman,
Eric Bazilian, and the crew's unfailingly sharp songwriting and sensitive way with the mandolin, accordion, and of course, the hooter, to shine through.