Getting Away with It... Live
James · 2002
119 min · 22 tracks · alternative rock
A vibrant live showcase of alternative rock energy, blending anthemic choruses with introspective lyrics and dynamic instrumentation.
Top tracks — play these first
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Laid — This track exemplifies the band's knack for catchy melodies and relatable themes, making it a staple of their live performances.
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Sit Down — An anthem of unity and reflection, this song's emotional weight and singalong quality make it a defining moment of the concert.
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Born of Frustration — The energy and urgency of this track capture the band's live spirit, showcasing their ability to weave complex emotions into infectious music.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album captures James' live energy but lacks a cohesive narrative flow typical of studio albums.
What we noticed
- Several songs are extended with instrumental sections that allow for improvisation and audience interaction, enhancing the live experience.
- The setlist is arranged to build momentum, starting with more energetic tracks and gradually incorporating slower, introspective pieces.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- dynamic live energy throughout
- wave-like pacing for immersion
- cathartic sing-along moments
- emotional peaks and valleys
- for late-night drives
Maybe skip if you
- prefer concise, standalone tracks
- seek instant gratification
Where this album fits
- Career context
- In 2002, James was enjoying a resurgence after their commercial peak in the 1990s, with 'Getting Away with It... Live' serving as a celebration of their extensive catalog. This album, recorded during a performance in Manchester, follows their earlier successful studio efforts and captures the band reconnecting with fans while showcasing their evolving sound.
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Say Something
The moment shifts from quiet vulnerability to an explosive plea for connection amid swirling instrumentals.
This contrast highlights the emotional intensity of seeking reassurance against the backdrop of a powerful live arrangement.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
Disc 1
- 1 Say Something 4:21
- 2 Waltzing Along 4:12
- 3 Sometimes 4:19
- 4 Laid 2:48
- 5 I Know What I’m Here For 4:23
- 6 God Only Knows 5:22
- 7 Someone’s Got It in for Me 5:25
- 8 Vervaceous 7:09
- 9 Protect Me 4:21
- 10 Out to Get You 7:41
- 11 Hymn From a Village 3:24
- 12 Johnny Yen 5:40
Disc 2
- 1 Getting Away With It 5:19
- 2 Tomorrow 4:07
- 3 Born of Frustration 5:14
- 4 Ring the Bells 7:19
- 5 Top of the World 5:24
- 6 Sound 11:53
- 7 Space 5:01
- 8 She’s a Star 3:48
- 9 Come Home 5:19
- 10 Sit Down 6:58
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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