Audioslave

Live in Cuba (Sony)

This probably sounded perfect on paper: the most left-leaning American rock band this side of System of a Down cranks up their amps for Cuba’s rock-starved populace, pleasing Communists (free concert!) and capitalists (DVD tie-in!) alike. Stuck promoting brand-new material to a crowd that barely recognizes “Like a Stone,” Audioslave gives it their all but don’t even speak Spanish until near the end. In turn, the 60,000 in Havana’s Anti-Imperialist Plaza come off more curious than rabid. The deluxe edition boasts extra songs, a behind-the-scenes doc, and bonus “Sessions at AOL” live footage. Take that, Fidel.

**

This article appears in December 23 • 2005.

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