Metal Underground.com

Hatebreed is a band which seems to get a lot more criticism than it deserves. Despite being a band with heavy ties to both hardcore and extreme metal, many are intent on not giving them a chance. Those people should take a look at the band's first DVD release, "Live Domination," which is without a doubt the most impressive DVD I've watched since Onslaught released their "Live Polish Assault" disc.

The main feature of the DVD is the live show at Harpo's in Detroit, Michigan, which shows not only the band at their most aggressive, but also their fans. The reaction from the crowd is fantastic, and one that every band hopes to achieve, especially when they're shooting a live DVD. Hatebreed rips into the set with an unmatched ferocity, tearing through songs such as "This Is Now" and "Destroy Everything," which gets everybody in the place singing along, while they still have the energy to mosh and slam dance. The sound on this section is perfect, and while its been said that a recorded performance never captures the actual atmosphere, this is the nearest you will ever get. It's impossible not to get into the energy of the concert, and you'll be headbanging with full force throughout every song.

The fun never stops coming, from start to finish, and takes an especially fun turn at the end when frontman Jamey Jasta brings a young fan onstage, who doesn't look any older than ten years old, to do his first stage dive, which is strangely awesome. This is a great live set, great production, and a real treat for fans of Hatebreed.

The DVD is packed with extras, which include a behind-the-scenes look at the Detroit concert showing the stage set up and (quite literally) the road to Harpo's. They don't seem to serve much of a purpose, but at least it gives the roadies some props for showing how much work really went into the show. The bonus live footage from Connecticut and New York is well shot, though not as great sound wise as the Detroit footage. That said, it's great if, even after you've watched the main concert, you want more live Hatebreed. Each band member contributes to the interviews segment, which is great, as a lot of interview segments on music DVDs tend to miss out a band member or two. The group gives an insightful look at their attitude towards their work ethic, their love for their fans, and life on the road. The photo galleries are perhaps best for listening to even more music but they're still pretty cool, and the R.I.P. segment was a nice touch.

Hatebreed has really hit the nail on the head with this DVD, and has shown everyone what a formidable live act they are. "Live Dominance" is well worth picking up, even if you're not a hardcore fan of the band.