Johnny Thunders, who sadly passed away on April 23rd, 1991, and who was actually (shocker) born John Anthony Genzale, Jr., was an American rock and roll/punk rock guitarist, singer and songwriter. He came to prominence in the early 1970's as a member of the New York Dolls, later played with The Heartbreakers (but not Tom Petty's version), before even later having some solo time.

In truth, as I'm sure all you Thunders fans already know, L.A.M.F. - Live at the Village Gate 1977 is a previously unreleased live recording of Johnny Thunders & The Heartbreakers at the peak of their powers. These shows are referred to by band member Walter Lure, as the best that The Heartbreakers ever played!

This particular one includes some of the most passionate playing of their, and other bands' hits, such as the album opener "Chinese Rocks," "Born Too Loose," and so many more. It also features special guests Robert Gordon and New York Doll, Sylvain Sylvain, on a rare performance of the Carl Perkins classic "Boppin The Blues," which is a lovely musical treat.

1. "Chinese Rocks"
2. "Pirate Love"
3. "Get Off The Phone"
4. "All By Myself"
5. "Let Go"
6. "Can't Keep My Eyes On You"
7. "Chatterbox"
8. "One Track Mind"
9. "Take A Chance With Me"
10. "Born Too Loose"
11. "Boppin' The Blues"
12. "Do You Love Me"
13. "I Wanna Be Loved"

The story of this live show/tour, and The Heartbreakers themselves is as punk rock as the music, to be quite frank! While in Britain they were signed to Track Records and released their only official studio album, L.A.M.F., an abbreviation for "Like A Mother F**ker". L.A.M.F. was received positively by critics and fans alike, but was criticized for its poor production. Displeased with the production, the band members were soon competing with one other, mixing and remixing the record, culminating in drummer Jerry Nolan quitting in November 1977. Shortly thereafter, the Heartbreakers officially disbanded. See, I told ya!

Available on CD in a deluxe mini LP gatefold sleeve and on gorgeous opaque pink vinyl, L.A.M.F. - Live at the Village Gate 1977 is musical history in a bottle (well, ok, on a CD and an audiophile's dream colored vinyl!)

CD Purchase Link

Opaque Pink Vinyl Purchase Link