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Not many people were aware that the new release from The Used was a live CD. I even thought the vocals were a little quiet until I read in the promo packet that Berth was recorded/shot at a live show in Vancouver BC. This confusion stems from the promise of a new album in 2007, three long years after In Love and Death. The release is a strategic little appetizer, used to tide over fans of the band until the full length CD comes out in April 2007. Yup, The Used put out a live CD two months before their long awaited, currently untitled and sure to be a hit album is released on Reprise Records.


This is both a generous and tactical move. Hardcore fans of the band get live versions of their absolute favorite songs like “Take it Away” and “All That I’ve Got,” as well as an enticing peek at new material that they'll be itching to get their hands on. Well played, The Used, well played. But in fear of crying conspiracy too loudly, there really are no losers when a band releases a DVD; the fans get a glimpse into the lives of their idols and to experience shows that they couldn’t physically attend.

So thanks to the power of technology you get to experience The Used in concert, a band known for their energetic, innovative and visually driven shows. Aside from just plain old music, there are tracks on the CD filled with ambient noise and Bert McCracken’s gut-wrenching, self-righteous poetry-type interstitials that thousands of emo kids worldwide might not otherwise be privy to. The songs aren’t carbon copies of their studio versions, always a bonus when you’re buying a CD/DVD of songs you already own. Studio versions of the songs performed are pretty lively in their own right, but Bert McCracken screeches with more gusto in front of live audience, validating their stage shows in the flesh, and on the DVD. Some of the DVD footage was a little dark, but shows are supposed to be dark, right? Not to mention the realism should enhance your living room mosh pit.