Having
overcome the obvious question "how", when leader Alex has been dead
nearly a quarter of a century, the result's of Zalvation, a 2CD live set, are
extremely impressive. And if Queen can do it with
Paul Rodgers, why can't SAHB. It's interesting that
guitarist Zal Cleminson, with his trademark clown make-up, takes centre stage
on the CD sleeve. Maybe that's to distract from the man with the giant boots to
fill. Singer Max Maxwell does a more than adequate
job, his Scottish brogue coming close to Harvey's theatrics. If there's problem,
it's a tendency to overplay the Alex card - there's a tad too much reference to
the great performer, be it in audience chit chat or re-working of song lyrics.
Yes he was a great performer, yes SAHB can't really
be SAHB without him, but if you're going to come back, just get on with it. Remember
this was a band and Cleminson, the McKenna's and Chris Glen are as tight and creative
as they've ever been. Put them together with classics like Framed, Next and the
mighty Faith Healer and a good time is assured. The
live recording (they don't hide the fact that studio elements have been put in)
gives just the right amount of roughness and feel to imagine you're there in the
sweaty crowd. Not quite the same without the leader
but a fitting tribute nonetheless. i-Pod: The Faith
Healer
Label: Jerkin Crocus
Rating: 3.5/5 | 
