B-Side Guys

Capturing the essence of a live performance while maintaining studio-quality sound is a delicate balance for live albums. Lí-Lí Octave’s “Play on Venus (Live),” released on September 30, 2024, not only achieves this balance but transcends it, offering listeners an intimate, electrifying experience that pulsates with the energy of her Jazz ‘n Dine 2024 performance at the Intercontinental Dominica Cabrits Resort and Spa.

From the opening notes of “Wait (For Your Love),” it’s clear that this is no ordinary live album. Octave’s voice, rich and resonant, fills the space with a warmth that seems to reach through the speakers and envelop the listener. The live setting allows for nuances in her vocal performance that might be lost in a studio recording, adding depth and immediacy to her already powerful delivery.

“Lay It Down” showcases Octave’s ability to blend Caribbean rhythms with neo-soul sensibilities. The interplay between her voice and the live band is particularly noteworthy here, with each musician given space to shine without overshadowing the vocals. It’s a testament to Octave’s generosity as a performer and her confidence in her material.

As the album progresses, Octave takes us on a journey through the female experience, touching on themes of love, self-assertion, and empowerment. “Out Of Place” is a standout track, its lyrics exploring feelings of alienation with a vulnerability that’s amplified by the live setting. You can almost hear the audience holding their collective breath during the song’s quieter moments.

“You Scared” and “Struggling” form the emotional core of the album, delving into the complexities of relationships and self-doubt. Octave’s lyrics here are particularly sharp, offering insights that feel both deeply personal and universally relatable. The live performance adds an extra layer of raw emotion to these tracks, with subtle variations in Octave’s vocal delivery conveying a range of feelings that might be lost in a more polished studio recording.

One of the album’s most charming moments comes with “Grandma’s Kitchen,” a nostalgic ode to family and tradition. Octave’s storytelling shines here, painting vivid pictures with her words and infusing the performance with a warmth that feels like a loving embrace. The audience’s reaction, audible in the background, adds to the sense of shared experience that permeates the entire album.

“Work Of Art,” the track that Octave herself considers a defining piece of the album, lives up to its title. It’s a celebration of self-love and creativity, with Octave’s vocals soaring over intricate instrumentation. The live setting allows for some thrilling improvisational moments, showcasing the chemistry between Octave and her band.

The album takes a more assertive turn with “Get Off Me” and “Mind Your GD Business,” two tracks that crackle with defiant energy. Octave’s delivery here is fierce and unapologetic, her voice cutting through the mix with laser-like precision. These songs, in particular, benefit from the live setting, feeding off the audience’s energy to create moments of pure, unbridled expression.

“Play on Venus (Live)” closes with “Top Of The World,” a triumphant finale that encapsulates the album’s journey. Octave’s voice, showing no signs of fatigue after nearly 45 minutes of powerhouse performances, reaches new heights here. It’s a fitting end to an album that feels like both a personal statement and a universal celebration.

What sets “Play on Venus (Live)” apart is its ability to capture the essence of Lí-Lí Octave as a performer. There’s an authenticity to these recordings that goes beyond mere sound quality. You can hear Octave’s passion, her connection with the audience, and her joy in sharing these deeply personal songs. It’s this emotional authenticity that elevates the album from a simple live recording to a truly immersive experience.

The production quality deserves special mention. Despite being a live album, each instrument is crisp and clear, allowing listeners to appreciate the nuances of the performances. The mix strikes a perfect balance, highlighting Octave’s vocals while giving space to the intricate arrangements that support her.

For fans of neo-soul, Caribbean music, or simply powerful, emotionally resonant performances, “Play on Venus (Live)” is essential listening. It’s an album that rewards repeated plays, revealing new layers of musicality and lyrical depth with each spin.

Lí-Lí Octave has delivered a live album that serves as both a showcase for her considerable talents and a testament to the power of live music. “Play on Venus (Live)” is more than just a collection of songs – it’s an invitation to experience the magic of a truly gifted performer at the height of her powers. As the final notes fade away, listeners are left with the sense of having witnessed something special, a musical journey through the landscape of human experience, guided by an artist unafraid to bare her soul and share her truth.