Moody Music: Live from the LAC

Written by Max Hoody.

There’s something undeniably special about live music. Attending concerts offers an atmosphere that transforms how fans experience their favorite songs. Though the sound may not be as polished as a studio recording, the raw energy of live performances can change the feel of the music entirely. Live music can create long–lasting memories or change audiences’ perspective on a song. Artists’ fresh takes on classic favorites have a way of transforming the music. Whether it's a faster tempo, added distortion, or the thrill of hearing the audience sing along, live music brings new life and perspective to familiar tracks. Each of these three performances showcase the incredible energy and sound of live recordings.

Here’s a playlist to listen along with while you read.

1. THE KINKS: “ALL DAY AND ALL OF THE NIGHT” (1979)

Genre: Classic Rock | Listen on Spotify, Apple Music, or Youtube

Before the first note even plays, lead singer Ray Davies sets the tone by declaring, “Rock bands have come, rock bands have gone, but rock and roll’s gonna go on forever!” This introduction leads into a driving uptempo riff that propels one of the most electrifying live recordings from The Kinks. The energy of the crowd amplifies the moment, especially during a break in the song when you can hear one of the musicians say something to his bandmates before a piercing “Ayo” rings out. The entire audience responds in kind, echoing the call before the band dives back into the song with renewed intensity. The faster pace and vocal interludes give this live version an edge that’s distinct from the studio recording, making it a must-listen.

2. DAFT PUNK: “AROUND THE WORLD / HARDER, BETTER, FASTER, STRONGER” (2007)

Genre: Electronic | Listen on Spotify, Apple Music, or Youtube

The crowd erupts as soon as the bassline of Daft Punk’s “Around the World” breaks through, setting the stage for an unforgettable live mashup. While the thumping bass initially obscures the song’s opening, the funky, unmistakable rhythm eventually cuts through, igniting even more excitement. The energy doesn’t let up as Daft Punk transitions seamlessly into “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger.” What makes this performance legendary, however, is the way the duo blends the two songs together, creating what could arguably be called the best sample of Daft Punk by Daft Punk themselves. As the performance winds down, they layer in additional sounds, crafting an epic auditory experience that defies easy description. Words fall short here this one you have to hear for yourself.

3. PHISH: “THE SQUIRMING COIL” (1994)

Genre: Rock | Listen on Spotify, Apple Music, or Youtube

Phish is renowned for its live performances, often elevating their songs far beyond the confines of their studio versions. The live rendition of “The Squirming Coil” from the album “A Live One” is no exception. While the song begins with the familiar lyrics and harmonies, it’s the extended jam that truly sets this performance apart. Midway through the 12-minute track, keyboardist Page McConnell takes over with a stunning piano solo that stretches into something transcendent. The crowd, deeply connected to the music, adds to the moment when a fan calls out “Don’t stop” as the solo winds down. This brief interaction only enhances the beauty of McConnell’s playing, making the performance even more intimate and powerful. Phish’s ability to transform a live show into a unique experience is on full display here, making “The Squirming Coil” an essential listen.