Pepper’s new live album, “Kona Gold,” does not satisfy the usual mellow quality that fans have come to expect.
While the album gives evidence of a rockin’ concert, the heavy, crowd-infused renditions are a stretch from the customary Pepper vibe.
Recorded at a live concert on Aug. 16, 2008, at The Fox Theater in Boulder, Colo., “Kona Gold” consists largely of tracks from Pepper’s breakout album “Kona Town,” released in 2002.
Poor sound quality, and vocals that lack range, leave the listener wanting to go out and rage, yet are clearly aimed at the inebriated crowd more so than a fan listening on the drive home.
The band hits its stride toward the end of the show, midway through “Ho’s,” and climaxing during “Tongues.” Lead singer Kaleo Singer finally displays the smooth, ear-melting vocals that set Pepper apart from the rest.
2 stars out of 5
