SHED Seven may have suffered dwindling album sales but their popularity as a live act remains undiminished.

The reason for this is simple - they write catchy songs that make you want to jump up and down. Ask anyone who got tickets for their recent sold-out residencies in London and their old teenage stomping ground of Fibbers in York.

A live album was long overdue and the lads have paid back their fans' patience with this bumper offering, which encompasses the best of their back catalogue.

Anyone who has seen the Sheds play live will instantly relate to this album, which was recorded at Shepherd's Bush Empire in London; but those who haven't will not. It is best summed up as a joyous, lager-fuelled sweaty singalong.

Rick Witter's habit of encouraging the crowd to join in is prevalent throughout, particularly on opener Getting Better, in which several fans are passed the microphone to sing the chorus very badly. And guitarist Joe Johnson doesn't have time to pick up his plectrum before the crowd are screaming the words to On Standby.

Going For Gold sounds majestic, with a gentle acoustic opening followed by an all-out rock assault. Lies, one of the weaker songs from A Maximum High, is poor and the tracks from last album, Truth Be Told, shine less brightly.

Long Time Dead - my personal favourite - sounds as good as ever. An essential purchase for any Sheds fan.

Updated: 09:24 Thursday, May 22, 2003