Patti Smith and Kevin Shields: The Coral Sea

The set is comprised of two live concert recordings from Smith and Shields’ performances at London’s Queen Elizabeth Hall in 2005 and 2006. In the 2005 performance, Shields leaves larger open spaces and Smith’s recitation frequently feels more loving and serene, punctuated with near-sobs and a more naturalistic flow. Shields’ swells on the later show are more ominous and omnipresent, and Smith’s heaviest howls exude a sharper rage at the face of death. The choice to include both looks is perhaps a testament to the subject’s multidimensionality, even if the premise of listening to them both in succession is more than a bit overwhelming. Still, the courage and passion of the performances shine through.