Live Dark Light

AMG Review of Live Dark Light

Greg Prato
All Music Guide

Recorded live at the Labbatts Hammersmith Apollo (London, England) on November 12, 1994, Live Dark Light is split 50/50 between newer material and old-time favorites by alterna-legend Gary Numan. Although the majority of his earlier work was dominated by the futuristic sound of the Moog synthesizer, Numan in the '90s has more in common sonically with Nine Inch Nails than Kraftwerk -- current electro sounds and brittle electric guitar have replaced the Moog. Live Dark Light will appeal to Numan's older fans especially, since it includes inspired renditions of the outstanding album tracks "Replicas," "Praying to the Aliens," "Friends," "Jo the Waiter," and "Listen to the Sirens," among others. The newer tracks "Meanstreet" and "A Question of Faith" prove to be highlights, as do the trusty hits "Are 'Friends' Electric?," "I Die: You Die," and "Stormtroopers in Drag." Although Living Ornaments '79 and Living Ornaments '80 are the definitive Gary Numan in-concert releases, Live Dark Light definitely has its moments.