Reed right in approach to his live recordings

Spencer Patterson

Friday, March 5, 2004 | 8:33 a.m.

Critics disagree on the merits of Lou Reed's many solo discs, but surely they would concur on one point: The man has a fondness for live recordings.

Over the years Reed has released six live albums, and that doesn't include the dozen or so concert documents by his old band, the Velvet Underground.

I've heard just about all of them at one time or another, and though it may surprise some, I find myself returning most often to 1998's "Perfect Night: Live in London."

Recorded during a single July 1997 concert, the disc presents Reed and his three-piece band playing to an appreciative, respectful crowd at London's Royal Albert Hall.

In contrast to Reed's more acclaimed 1974 live album, "Rock 'n' Roll Animal," "Perfect Night" eschews feedback and guitar solos for a quiet, almost acoustic, setting. The music is purposeful but understated, showcasing the legendary frontman's vocal talents above all.

And Reed's voice has rarely sounded better. His lyrics, delivered nearly spoken-word style at times, ring out with a warmth and richness unheard on much of Reed's recent work.

The 67-minute album brims with revelatory moments, beginning with a regal take on the Velvet Underground classic, "I'll Be Your Mirror," the only V.U. song in the bunch.

Hearing Reed sing the words is somewhat peculiar, considering the German female vocalist Nico sang the well-known original. But Reed breathes new life into the tune, phrasing the lyrics differently and placing emphasis in unfamiliar places.

On two of the disc's more somber numbers -- "The Kids" and "Coney Island Baby" -- the raw emotion in Reed's often detached voice is laid bare, as he shifts smoothly from complete calm to total ferocity.

Looking at the track listing, casual Reed fans might not see many recognizable titles. "Walk on the Wild Side" isn't among the 15 tracks, nor are "Heroin" and "Sweet Jane."

In the end, though, it really doesn't matter whether Reed is singing 1989 hit "Dirty Blvd.," deep album cuts such as 1976's "Kicks" and 1996's "Riptide" or previously unreleased numbers "Into the Divine" and "Talking Book." When the man sounds this good, he can sing the Applebee's menu and make it sound glorious.

And don't fret if "Perfect Night" doesn't suit your tastes. Reed's next live album, "Animal Serenade," is due March 23.

Artist: Lou Reed.

Title: "Perfect Night: Live in London."

Year of release: 1998 (Reprise Records).

Tracklisting: "I'll Be Your Mirror," "Perfect Day," "The Kids," "Vicious," "Busload of Faith," "Kicks," "Talking Book," "Into the Divine," "Coney Island Baby," "New Sensations," "Why Do You Talk," "Riptide," "Original Wrapper," "Sex With Your Parents," "Dirty Blvd."