0076732802229. New condition. CD. The late 80s were wrought with equal measures of tremendous professional popularity and personal crisis for Elton John. As he would reveal later this inspired double-LP live collection released in 1987 captures the artist at one of the best and worst times of his life. In fact John cites the emotionally charged Don t Let the Sun Go Down on Me and Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word as triggering what would become a severe mental breakdown the results of nearly a decade of substance-fueled decadence. On top of it all and perhaps most tellingly is John s tattered voice. So dire was the situation that literally within weeks of the concert he would undergo a surgical procedure that could have easily ended his career had it failed. Perhaps the ultimate irony is that at this precise moment John was launching his re-association with MCA Records via this live career retrospective which was simultaneously broadcast throughout the entire globe. Keeping all of that in mind Elton John once again proved himself as a consummate showman performing at the peak of his abilities. John s comparatively small combo is augmented on these tracks by the 88-piece Melbourne Symphony Orchestra under the direction of onetime bandmate James Newton Howard. There are a few surprisingly strong readings of early sides such as 60 Years On I Need You to Turn To The Greatest Discovery and an edgy and soulful version of The King Must Die. Other unexpected detours into John s catalog include the intimate desperation of Tonight from Blue Moves (1976) and Have Mercy on the Criminal from Don t Shoot Me I m Only the Piano Player (1973). There are also the hits and enthusiast favorites Tiny Dancer Your Song Candle in the Wind (which was issued as a single and topped pop music charts worldwide) the previously mentioned Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word and Don t Let the Sun Go Down on Me. The companion home video includes a few additional performances such as the thoroughly inspiring One Horse Town. While not entirely essential Live in Australia is at its core an adeptly executed concert package. ~ Lindsay Planer Rovi