Lior
Doorways Of My Mind: Live At The NSC
Independent

Having witnessed Lior's great live show, it seems only logical that he would eventually get around to releasing a live album. That he has, from two nights recorded at NSC in Melbourne last year, 'Doorways Of My Mind' offers a more complete picture of what Lior is really capable of.

This album appears to be somewhat of a stop gap between Lior's very well received debut of last year, 'Autumn Flow' and his next album, with some new material, such as Diego & The Village Girl, interspersed throughout the eleven song set to make this album something more than just a live rendition of 'Autumn Flow' tracks. Lior seems to revel in the live setting, giving him the freedom to improvise and move around within the arrangements of his songs, as the more rocked-up version of Autumn Flow attests to. Other highlights include a great version of Sitting With A Stranger which sees Lior's band accompanied by a live string section.

Unlike some live records this one doesn't sound as if it has been endlessly processed and polished, as you still get a good feel for the atmosphere in the room, and the very appreciative crowd. However, there is not a lot of banter to be heard, with sticking to what he does best. At times I felt myself likening Lior to the late, great Jeff Buckley due to their shared vocal gymnastic abilities, it's probably down to Lior's great voice and, backed by his strong band, they are able to make these songs sound as good as or better than on record. All in all if you are already a fan you'll certainly appreciate this, and if you're still yet to discover Lior, this isn't a bad place to start.

Simon Foster