Some of you might be thinking "oh great, another pointless live album." And granted, when discussing the majority of live albums out there, that response is fully justified. However, it's a statement that won't hold water when discussing Sunny Day Real Estate's live album. Simply titled Live, the disc captures the refined power and unremitting grace of this near-legendary band.

The album was recorded in Eugene, Oregon on May 26, 1999, as the band toured in support of their brilliant 3rd effort How it feels to be Something On. There couldn't have been a more fitting show selection -- Live finds the band firing on all cylinders and creating powerful, beautiful and stirringly emotional music. On songs like "100 million" and "The Prophet," Jeremy Enigk's trademark vocals soar above the crunching guitars and precise drumming. Conversely, on "Song About an Angel" Enigk's voice intertwines with Dan Hoerner's weaving guitar lines and occasionally gets lost in the song's sonic majesty. The crack rhythm section of drummer William Goldsmith and bassist Joe Bass provides a rock-solid foundation on which the group's songs can shift and expand; their skills are showcased on the brooding, angular "Rodeo Jones."

Its quite a testament to these musicians that after their split in 1996, they were able to reconcile their differences and do what they do best: make music together. Live is an album that will allow you to throw down your crutches and walk -- for you, just like the band, now believe in the healing power of rock and roll.

Another pointless live album? I think not.