Jane's Addiction

The 1991 Jane's Addiction release Live & Rare is a Japanese-only collection that was comprised of live material, demos, and a remix. While there are no new tracks mixed in with the rarities (à la their similar collection from 1997, Kettle Whistle), Live and Rare is a solid set nonetheless. The only remix on the album, "Been Caught Stealing (perhaps the band's best-known song), kicks things off, leading directly into the demos and in-concert takes. The interesting "L.A. Medley" contains three covers of bands from the West Coast -- the Doors' "L.A. Woman," X's "Nausea," and the Germs' "Lexicon Devil" -- while other selections like "Had a Dad," "No One's Leaving," and "Ain't No Right" show why many consider Jane's Addiction one of the finest live rock bands of all time. Demos of "Jane Says" and "Had a Dad" are also highlights, as well as "I Would for You," which is the only studio version of the song to be issued (a live version had been included previously on their 1987 debut, Jane's Addiction). While fans just discovering this great band should stick to their two major-label classic albums (Nothing's Shocking and Ritual De Lo Habitual), longtime fans should definitely check out Live and Rare. ~ Greg Prato, All Music Guide