The Motels Live at the Whisky a Go Go: 50th Anniversary Special

Captured live in 2014 at L.A.'s Whisky a Go Go—a legendary venue celebrating its 50th anniversary—Martha Davis and the Motels deliver a 17-song set that draws heavily from the New Wave band's first four studio albums (released 1979-1983). Introduced by actress Rosanna Arquette and Grammy nominee Linda Perry, front woman Davis still has the sultry chops that informed The Motels' megahits “Only the Lonely” and “Suddenly Last Summer.” Aside from Davis, the only original band member here is Marty Jourard on keyboards and sax (younger bucks fill out the roster on guitar, bass, and drums). Initially, Davis's vocals are somewhat overshadowed during the more instrument-heavy tunes, such “Mission of Mercy,” after which someone shouts something and Davis does a double-take, asking “Whoa, did somebody ask me to take off my top? Do you know what birthday this is?” (Davis is here celebrating her 63rd). I might have misheard, but I actually thought the guy yelled something along the lines of “Turn your mic up.” Davis sounds better on quieter entries like “Celia,” “Counting,” and the lovely “Mr. Grey.” Also featuring the hits “Take the L” (with the classic refrain, “take the L out of lover/and it's over”) and “Total Control,” filmmaker Denise Faye's relatively intimate concert documentary is moderately entertaining. Extras include a fan's surprise backstage meeting with Davis, and an interview featurette with early band members Jeff Jourard, Dean Chamberlain, and Robert Newman recalling the group's heyday. Presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 (which on my review copy simply dropped out for the final three tracks) and stereo, this is a strong optional purchase. (R. Pitman)