Search - Nico :: Chelsea Girl Live

Nico's Best Live Performance

01/04/2002

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Nico's collection of live albums can be summed up as average at best, with sometimes having some strong moments. Her brilliance is best caught in the studio rather than the stage, but some how this album almost catches the power and force that could be heard in "Desertshore" and "The End"; this is also the best recorded live album of hers that I have listened to. An incredible ode to 80s synth is displayed in "One More Chance" and "Purple Lips" (both exceptional tracks and better than the "Drama of Exile" versions). Without the heavy instrumentation, Nico sounds just as good with her harmoniun on "Procession" and "Janitor of Lunacy". These songs aren't enough to cover up the album's disappointments though. The harmonium based "Tananore" and "My Heart is Empty" both fall flat and will make you pop on your "Camera Obscura". "Sixty-Forty" proves that heavy synth doesn't work for everything (this song should have been handled with a traditional guitar/drummer back up) and the reworking of "Femme Fatale" is weak. At least the a capella "All Tomorrows Parties" and her somber "Saeta" are morbidly endearing."

An amazing piece of work by the "Queen of the Bad Girls"

M. E. Walters | Pittsburgh, PA USA | 01/19/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"A work of stunning poignancy and clarity. Recorded in 1985, "Chelsea Girl Live" draws from Nico's work with the VU and her later solo work. The track "Sixty Forty" is absolutely haunting, and her take on the Doors' "The End" is a revelation. Classic songs, through and through, that have never been appreciated as they should. Startlingly honest..."

NOT HER BEST.....NOT A KIDS REVIEW..........

Syd | 11/18/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I love nico to death, but however this isnt her death. She doesnt sound like herself. She sounds more like an Irish Tenor (listen to Femme Fatale) than the german goddess who once sang with the velvet underground....."