Foreigner marks fiftieth anniversary with live album and concert film
Foreigner releases a soundtrack and film from their Ellis Island session, highlighting the ongoing commercial appeal of legacy acts monetising their catalogues despite a lack of original members.
Foreigner has released In The Eye Of The Storm, a live album and accompanying concert film documenting a performance recorded on Ellis Island in September 2025. The project marks the fiftieth anniversary of the rock band, which guitarist Mick Jones originally formed in 1976.
The release highlights the ongoing commercial strategy of legacy acts monetising their extensive catalogues through anniversary events and multimedia projects. It also reflects a common modern touring reality, as the current performing lineup does not include any of the band's original members.
Despite the absence of the founding roster, legendary vocalist Lou Gramm and original keyboard player Al Greenwood make guest appearances to spice up the proceedings. They perform alongside long-serving vocalist Kelly Hansen and relative newcomer Luis Maldonado, flexing their vocal power on the classic material.
The electric portion of the record relies on five tracks drawn from the band's first two studio albums. The setlist features established hits including Double Vision, Feels Like The First Time, Hot Blooded, Long, Long Way From Home and I Want To Know What Love Is.
The second half of the album shifts to a live acoustic set recorded at Brooklyn’s Dumbo House club. This portion features Blue Morning, Blue Day, Fool For You Anyway, and Juke Box Hero, alongside an eight-minute rendition of Hot Blooded and a sombre cover of Bridge Over Troubled Water.
Reviewers note that presenting the songs as discreet tracks with almost zero crowd noise results in a distinct lack of live atmosphere. The marketing story regarding a massive thunderstorm rolling across New York and almost raining off the filming session is seen as overpromising on thrills.
Critics note that the acoustic set offers more character and lively jamming compared to the polite first half. However, the project is not expected to rank among live classics, serving instead as an anniversary curio and a pleasant souvenir for the collection.
