Billy Idol – 'California FM 1990' – Bootleg Edition (The Billy Idol Series)

For those who know me, my admiration for Billy Idol runs deep. Whenever I stumble upon a rare gem to add to my collection, I seize the opportunity without hesitation. Recently, I discovered a bootleg recording that caught my eye. This marks my fourth Idol bootleg, and it’s a special one from way back in 1990. Recorded at the Pacific Amphitheatre in Costa Mesa, California, on October 27, 1990, this performance was part of the promotional tour for his then-latest album, ‘Charmed Life.’ While it’s important to note that this isn’t a complete show, but rather a curated selection broadcast on the radio, I firmly believe that ten songs of Billy Idol is better than none at all. Wouldn’t you agree? Absolutely!

The version I acquired is a European release, freshly minted in 2023. I stumbled upon it during a visit to D&J Records in Tampa, Florida, while on vacation in June. The thrill of finding such a treasure was palpable. However, there’s a notable absence in the band credits: Steve Stevens, Billy’s iconic guitarist, is missing. At this point in time, he and Billy were still estranged, a rift that would last for several years. The question remains: does this absence affect the overall performance? Let’s dive into the details.

SIDE A:

The album kicks off with “Eyes Without a Face.” The fade-in suggests this wasn’t the opening track; in fact, I know it wasn’t, as “License to Thrill” is absent from the setlist. This song, heavy on synthesizers, is one of my all-time favorites from Billy. The crowd noise is vibrant, and the overall sound quality is impressive. When the guitar kicks in, it’s solid, with Mark Younger-Smith stepping in admirably, though it’s clear he doesn’t quite capture the essence of Steve Stevens. There’s something undeniably special about the chemistry between Billy and Steve. Nevertheless, Billy’s vocals are stellar; he’s in his prime and clearly relishing the performance.

Next up is the ever-popular “White Wedding.” The transition from the previous track is marked by a fade-out and fade-in, which detracts from the flow of the show. However, the song itself rocks hard, even if the guitar work feels a bit subdued. I’ll refrain from repeating that point, but it’s a recurring theme. Billy’s vocal delivery is as gritty as ever, and I can almost visualize his signature lip curl as he sings.

Following that is a cover of “L.A. Woman” by The Doors, a track that Billy always performs with flair. This rendition is notably faster than the original, showcasing a supercharged energy that propels the performance forward. Then, in a swift change of pace, we slow down with “Flesh for Fantasy.” This song features flashy keyboards and a groovy bass line, creating a deliciously funky atmosphere that allows each band member to shine.

We wrap up Side A with the high-energy track “(Do Not) Stand in the Shadows.” Initially, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it quickly became clear that this was a catchy favorite of mine. The song is simple yet infectious, and Mark delivers a commendable solo, adding to the fun vibe of the track.

SIDE B:

Flipping the disc, we’re greeted by the iconic “Rebel Yell.” This classic opens with a powerful scream from Billy, followed by that unmistakable guitar riff. Billy delivers the lyrics with an intensity that’s palpable, showcasing his attitude and swagger. Mark’s guitar work here is commendable; he captures some of the signature elements that fans expect, and the crowd is clearly engaged.

Next, we hear the big single from the ‘Charmed Life’ album, “Cradle of Love.” Billy himself has referred to this song as cheesy, and he even playfully alters the lyrics to reflect that sentiment. Yet, there’s a charm to this track that makes it a classic in its own right. Mark, who played on the album, delivers a fantastic guitar solo, complemented by great backing vocals from Carla Day.

Following this is “Sweet Sixteen,” which has a cheerful, upbeat vibe. The driving bass line sets a lively pace, making it impossible not to sway along. Then we transition to the crowd favorite, “Mony Mony,” a cover of Tommy James’ classic. Billy has made this song his own, and the crowd’s participation during the “Mony Mony” parts is a nostalgic highlight, even if it’s somewhat muted due to the radio broadcast.

Finally, we conclude with “Prodigal Blues,” a track that stretches over eight minutes. It begins with a slow build, featuring intricate fingerpicking and an atmospheric vibe. As the full band joins in, the energy rises, and Billy’s deliberate performance shines through. This track, the third single from the album, encapsulates the essence of Billy Idol’s artistry, leaving a lasting impression.

Despite not being a complete show and the occasional fade-ins and fade-outs disrupting the live experience, this bootleg is a strong addition to any Idol collection. Billy’s vocals remain powerful, and the band showcases their tightness throughout. While the absence of Steve Stevens is felt, the overall performance is still enjoyable. If you’re a fan looking for some live Billy Idol, this bootleg is definitely worth picking up. My overall score is a 3.5 out of 5.0 stars. The noted issues do impact the rating, but the quality of the music makes it a worthwhile find!

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