In 1986, Guns ‘N Roses were just getting their feet wet. Axl Rose had replaced original guitarist Tracii Guns with Slash. And the band quickly gained a local reputation for their more raw, less glam take on the Sunset Strip scene. Not to mention their over the top behavior and stage show. As the band struggled to get noticed by major labels, they decided to release an independent live EP entitled ‘Live…Like A Suicide.’ Documenting the bands local domination.
Now, this EP has become something of legend over the years. It’s not particularly easy to find. It’s not super rare. Yes, it is included on the bands second album ‘G’NR Lies.’ But by itself it is uncommon. And it’s not even available on I-tunes. Which is a pretty solid indicator that this album is not your everyday musical fare. In fact, while I was working at Amoeba records in Los Angeles someone came in with a mint vinyl copy. We put it up on the ‘wall’ where collectables are up for sale. Going for a solid 120$. So, there’s that too.
There’s only four tracks on the short, live record. Less than 20 minutes of pure, Sunset Strip youth sleaze aggression. ‘Reckless Life,’ one of the first songs ever written by the group. Opens things up with a punk infused blast. While ‘Nice Boys’ brings in the classic rock sound. But with an updated heavy guitar tone for the time. The timeless theme of ‘nice boys don’t play rock n roll’ can be found throughout the Sunset Scene.
‘Move To The City’ is an all time great Guns N Roses track. The horns, the girl coming to LA from flyover country theme, the jams. It’s all there. And on full display on the double live album ‘Live Era.’ Which features a full on eight minute version with horn solos and one of Slash’s great guitar jams. The bands cover of Aerosmith’s ‘Mama Kin’ closes the short ep out. With a ferocious energy and dedication to their rock gods. Not to be eclipsed by the original however.
Upon its mid December release, ‘Live…Like A Suicide’ sold well locally. And while it didn’t take off in other markets. It did capture the attention of Geffen records. Who would sign and back the bands debut LP ‘Appetite For Destruction.’ Which has become one of, if not the, highest selling debut albums of all time. And the rest is history. And it all begins with ‘Live…Like A Suicide.’ Which has now become one of the most sought after EPs ever. What’s your favorite track on the album? Sound off!
