Once in a Lifetime

AMG Review of Once in a Lifetime

David Ross Smith
All Music Guide

According to the LP cover, this three-track maxi-single is supposed to contain two versions of "Once in a Lifetime": a live version and an extended mix. Instead, the album presents two identical live renditions of the title track, taken from the popular Stop Making Sense, recorded in December 1983 at the Pantages Theatre, Hollywood. Despite this major flaw, the track is excellent. Originally recorded in the studio for Remain in Light (a minor hit for the band in 1980), this live performance is a bit faster and features rich percussion and backing vocals and beautiful sound quality to boot. A live version of the reflective "Naďve Melody" is included on the maxi-single. Although mood-evoking, it lacks the atmospheric qualities of the studio original. The Once in a Lifetime album cover presents Byrne at the mike wearing his famous oversized suit during a live concert.