In 1977, the proto-punk rock band Johnny Thunders and the Heartbreakers recorded their one and only studio album, L.A.M.F. (common gang graffiti at the time, standing for "Like a Mother Fucker"). Although derided for its poor sound mix, L.A.M.F. nevertheless gained cultural cache among music fans, all the more so after the death of Thunders and the departures of the original band members. L.A.M.F.: Live at the Bowery Electric is a 40th anniversary 2016 live concert performed by a kind of punk supergroup acting as a glorified cover ensemble. Organized by Heartbreakers guitarist Walter Lure—the only remaining musician from the historic first lineup—the legendary players in the tribute group here include drummer Clem Burke from Blondie; singer-bassist Tommy Stinson from the Replacements; and—most impressively—Wayne Kramer from the deeply political (and loud) 1960s-‘70s punk pioneers the MC5. Playing on a small stage in what looks like a cramped New York club full of enthusiastic audience members, the graying band delivers serviceable renditions of the 12 roaring, if murky, tracks on L.A.M.F. Guest artists including Jesse Malin (D Generation), Cheetah Chrome (Dead Boys), and Liza Colby (Liza Colby Sound) also appear on several songs. But while everyone clearly seems to be having a good time, the largely colorless music feels more like a reference point for the real thing than the real thing itself. Extras include band interviews. Presented in Dolby Digital stereo, this is a strong optional purchase. (T. Keogh)
L.A.M.F.: Live at the Bowery Electric
(2017) 47 min. DVD: $19.95. Music Video Distributors (avail. from most distributors). Volume 33, Issue 2
L.A.M.F.: Live at the Bowery Electric
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