Fresh off the release of his second solo album Why Me? Why Not? in September of 2019, Liam Gallagher returns with an MTV Unplugged live album set for release on Friday, June 12th through Warner Bros. Records.
An unprecedented move, the unplugged session features an eclectic mix of both new and older solo material mixed in with a large amount of classic Oasis material. Recorded at Hull City Hall, the location Paul McCartney, Nirvana and many more filmed unplugged sessions, Gallagher, in a way, fulfilled unfinished business. Why, you ask? Well, way back in 1996 he missed Oasis’s session due to illness, so this was a long time coming.
Ten tracks in total, it starts set off with “Wall of Glass,” a stomper that fans have come to know and love. However, this time it is offered in a stripped-down fashion, allowing Gallagher to let his voice shine as a trio of lovely background singers provide luscious harmonies. Setting the tone for the rest of the night, he rolled right into Oasis classic “Some Might Say” much to the crowd’s pleasure. With a full, powerful voice, it becomes apparent that both Gallagher and the crowd are in unison. That in mind, stripped down, the Oasis tune takes on an even more beautifully simplistic narrative. Then, with a lyrical nod to big brother Noel, he sings “One of Us.” A very Oasis-vibed song, again, thanks to the stripped down approach, the music and words have a deeper meaning.
Moving forward, standout tracks from the set include Oasis hits “Stand By Me” as well as a shining performance of “Sad Song.” The latter is a song seldom sung by Gallagher, even as a B-side during Oasis’ heyday, where it was usually sung by Noel. This is while “Once,” “Now That I Found You,” and “Cast No Shadow” all make appearances showcasing not only an amazing band, but an amazing singer who has found his swag again. Yet still, with set closer “Champagne Supernova,” Gallagher has the entire crowd in the palm of his hands with the inclusion of an epic string section compliments of the 24-piece Urban Soul Orchestra. Simply put, Gallagher takes this Oasis favorite to a whole new level as the crowd and the vocalist feed off one another.
Overall, Liam Gallagher fans will love everything about this lovely live performance. Complete with special guest Paul “Bonehead ” Arthurs (original Oasis rhythm guitarist) playing alongside Gallagher for the entire set, you are given a show that is magically nostalgic. In top notch shape both physically and vocally, Oasis fans fear not, some might say the kid is back in full force! Complete with snarl and swag, Liam Gallagher hits all the right notes and that is why Cryptic Rock gives his MTV Unplugged release 5 out of 5 stars.
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