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Recorded in December 1999 before a massive and wildly enthusiastic French audience, this Cranberries concert is remarkable testimony to the Irish band's seasoning, evolving confidence, and heightened sense of fun in the years since the release of their breakthrough hit singles ("Linger," "Zombie," "Ode to My Family," all performed here). Fans who saw the Limerick-born group's early- '90s tours recognized in singer-songwriter Dolores O'Riordan equal parts gamine, witch, and an inspirational incarnation of W.B. Yeats's Glimmering Girl. Now, however, Beneath the Skin: Live in Paris underscores O'Riordan's more relaxed, womanly stage presence, as well as a rounder, fuller sound from founding members Mike Hogan (bass), his brother Noel Hogan (guitar), and drummer Fergal Lawler. Strutting at various times in a flowing robe, leather mini-skirt, or white pants, the diminutive O'Riordan leads the Cranberries through an overview of their Celtic-tinged, alternately jangly or thrashing repertoire. As always, they're at their best when they reach beyond O'Riordan's tendencies toward lyrical self-congratulation. When they don't, a bit of monotony fogs up the proceedings. When they do, however, which is frequently in Beneath the Skin, the Cranberries demonstrate exquisite pop craftsmanship ("Just My Imagination," not to be confused with the Temptations' classic) and ferocity of spirit ("Animal Instinct"). In any case, the passionate Parisian audience at this show amplifies the band's thorny glories while, paradoxically, easing them into a comfortable encounter with stardom. All in all, this is a must for Cranberries fans and a multifaceted introduction to the group for everyone else. --Tom Keogh
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