Album Review: Bryan Adams - Australian Tour Edition 2013

Even if you don't like him, you have to admit that Bryan Adams has a few hits under his belt. Adams is like a lightweight boxer who hits above his weight, not afraid of going for the epic in every song. This tour edition release includes the hits you would expect like Cuts Like A Knife and Summer Of '69, as well as some interesting 'live' and demo recordings. As an album it is a fairly disjointed affair.

Adams is well known for his power ballads and edgy vocals, and there's plenty of that action here. (Everything I Do) I Do It for You is a perfect example of the power ballad written to enhance a movie blockbuster. With producers like Mutt Lange and Bob Clearmountain this material just can't fail. When You're Gone is radio fodder and is proof that Adams knows how to play melody off against loud guitars. This is music aimed at an FM radio generation for old and young alike. The Only Thing That Looks Good On Me Is You and 18 Til I Die are both perfect reminders of the strange idea that rock music needs to remain immature. Go figure…

Don't forget there are the duets with stars such as Tina Turner on It's Only Love and When You're Gone with Mel C. Strangely these are the songs that seem the weakest. Ultimately he seems unable to change his direction enough to allow any more artistic input from others. For this Canadian rock god it probably doesn't matter and this album is just a reminder that he has a strong back catalogue.