By 1997, it had become clear to
Social Distortion
that their relationship with
550
(formerly
Epic Records
) had not worked out and that it was time to move back to the independents. They wrestled themselves free from the contract and signed with
Time Bomb Recordings
. Their first album for the label was
Live at the Roxy
, a blistering set that offered a career summation and effectively set the band up for a new beginning. No matter how good
records are -- and they're usually fairly strong -- the band performs with more energy and passion on-stage, and
captures the intensity of their live show. It doesn't have any surprises, but the set list is solid and the performance's thrilling, which makes it a must for dedicated fans. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine