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Back to Budokan
Rock · 2009

Back to Budokan

High-voltage live reunion capturing technical wizardry and massive pop hooks. Blistering instrumental duels meet soaring four-part harmonies in a legendary Tokyo arena.

September 16, 2009 · Rock Empire Music

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Back to Budokan is the sound of a band reclaiming their throne with effortless precision. It captures the 2009 reunion of the original lineup in their most spiritual home, the Nippon Budokan. The atmosphere is electric, fueled by a Japanese audience that treats these musicians like deities. You can feel the mutual respect between the stage and the crowd, resulting in a performance that is both technically flawless and emotionally resonant.

Moments Worth Listening For
The synchronized tapping sequence during Addicted to That Rush where Gilbert and Sheehan mirror each other's lightning-fast patterns.
The massive audience sing-along during the acoustic breakdown of To Be With You that echoes through the arena.
The moment Paul Gilbert switches to a cordless drill for the iconic solo on Daddy, Brother, Lover, Little Boy.
Reviews

How does Back to Budokan sound next to the rest of Mr. Big's catalogue?

Live Recording+1.6σ

The production is pushed notably harder into live recording than this artist usually allows.

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