Album Review: Take Us Alive by Be Sharp
Released in 1998 under Pointed Records, Take Us Alive is a gritty throwback to the raw energy of Blues Rock that feels like it’s straight outta the UK—and honestly, we’re here for it. Be Sharp doesn’t reinvent the wheel with this one, but they sure as hell make it spin faster than you’d expect. The album blends classic rock vibes with bluesy undertones, creating something that’s both familiar and refreshingly alive. And yeah, the title track? It kinda lives up to its name.
Let’s talk tracks—because some just stick with you. “Manic Depression” kicks things off with a swagger that grabs your attention right away. The guitar riffs are punchy without being overdone, and the vocals have this raspy edge that screams authenticity (in a good way). You can almost picture smoky bars and dim lights while listening—it's not trying too hard to impress, which oddly makes it more impressive. This tune reminds me why I fell in love with blues-infused rock in the first place: it’s got soul, grit, and enough hooks to keep you coming back.
Then there’s “Sail On Sailor,” a slower burner that sneaks up on you when you least expect it. At first glance, it might feel like just another mid-tempo number, but give it time. By the second chorus, the melody sinks in deep, and suddenly you’re humming it hours later. The lyrics aren’t groundbreaking, sure, but they don’t need to be—they’re heartfelt and relatable, like an old friend sharing their story over a pint. It’s these little moments where the band shines brightest, proving they’ve got more layers than you’d think at first listen.
Other standouts include “Born Under A Bad Sign” and “Dreamworld,” both showing off the band’s knack for mixing heavy grooves with introspective vibes. But honestly, the whole album flows pretty well from start to finish. There aren’t any glaring missteps here, though a couple of tracks do blend together if you're not paying close attention. Still, that’s a minor gripe for what’s otherwise a solid effort.
One thing that struck me about Take Us Alive is how unpolished it feels compared to today’s hyper-produced music scene. In a world obsessed with perfection, Be Sharp reminds us that sometimes imperfection is what makes art memorable. Sure, the production isn’t flawless, and maybe a few solos go on longer than necessary—but who cares? It’s real, man.
Here’s the kicker: hearing this record two decades after its release feels… weirdly comforting. Like finding an old mixtape in your glove compartment and realizing it still slaps. Maybe that says more about me than the album itself, but hey, isn’t that what great music does? It sticks around, even when you don’t realize it.
So yeah, check out Take Us Alive. Just don’t blame me if you find yourself stuck in a blues-rock rabbit hole afterward.
