Music history is littered with brilliant live performances caught on tape. Who couldn't get entranced by James Brown's powerhouse recording at the Apollo or the all-star concert that is the Last Waltz by The Band? Especially guest Van Morrison's perfect take on 'Caravan'. Or perhaps more recently Pete Doherty's car crash of 'Children Of The Revolution' at Live 8?

Maybe not.

If the only live album you have heard of Mister Soul Sam Cooke's is 'Live At The Copa' then you are in for a treat with this album from Miami's Harlem Square Club. Where the Copa recording was restrained and sweet, here in all its glory is Cooke at his grittiest and most dynamic. Replacing the crooning is an almost carnal grunt and devilish laugh as Cooke rips through a set that not only tears the house down but most of Miami.

It helps that his band are in fine form (along with King Curtis himself on Sax) but mostly it his interaction with the audience that makes this such a joy to listen to. Banter is not confined to just the break between the songs (frankly because such a break is non-existent) as Cooke constantly talks to the crowd and even to himself. Who else would dare interrupt his singing just to utter absent mindedly: "Oh I like this song!" Right there is solid proof of a man who enjoys his career choice.

Because of this great energy being created on stage, the more tender songs get a bit of a kick in the pants. 'Cupid' goes from a Valentine standard to a desperate plea for love. The same goes for 'Bring It On Home To Me' as Sam turns the song into a case study for relationship mending.

Therefore you can only imagine how the generally upbeat party songs sound. Tracks like 'Twistin' The Night Away' and 'Having A Party' are positively electric as you imagine the crowd dancing their cares away on that January night in 1963.

Albums like this should be standard texts to music acts (whether they are from a soul background or not). They should be made to play such records incessantly as a reminder of a level that is able to be achieved if one is willing to give it their all.

Though just quietly, their best may never be good enough.