Review FARGO “Live in ’25”

Hailing from Hanover, Germany, Fargo is one of the pioneers of hard rock in Germany. The band formed in 1973 and released four albums before disbanding. A reunion took place in 2016, and the band’s discography was expanded with the addition of two studio albums.

With two founding members still on board—Peter Ladwig and Peter Knorn—the completion of Fargo’s line-up is by Henny Wolter and Nikolas Fritz. The four-piece band is now closing a gap in their list of achievements. Fargo never released a live album, but now they can check that off their list with their new release, “Live in ’25.” Recorded during several shows in 2024, the newest release offers a comprehensive overview of Fargo’s musical history.

“Little Smile” takes us back to 1979, as it comes from the band’s debut album, “Wishing Well.” The late-’70s sound also resonates in “I’m a Loser.” “Rain of Champagne” and “Gimme That Bone,” which are newer songs, have also been played during the live shows, and they are part of “Live in ’25” too, while the wider musical range of Fargo echoes in “A Girl Like a Trigger.” This reggae-fueled rock song represents a laid-back moment and shows that the four-piece band has a broader interpretation of their rock roots.

“Live in ’25” is Fargo’s first live album and provides a nostalgic vibe. Fans of the band waited more than 50 years for such a release, and now the gap is closed. “Live in ’25” represents the roots of German hard rock, which acted as an inspiration for others to follow.