Marilyn Manson: Personal Jesus Live In The Netherlands

Marilyn Manson’s live performances in the late ’90s were the epitome of chaos, theatrics, and raw industrial aggression. By 1998, Mechanical Animals had solidified his status as a rock provocateur, blending glam, industrial, and metal into a spectacle of excess. The FM broadcast of Manson’s December 14, 1998, performance at 013 in Tilburg, Holland, is a fascinating snapshot of this era, particularly with his rendition of Personal Jesus. Unlike a typical bootleg, this recording benefits from the clarity of a radio transmission, making it one of the better live captures of the time.

The Performance

The band, still featuring Mechanical Animals-era members like Twiggy Ramirez and John 5, delivers a tight, pulsating instrumental backdrop. The guitar tone is thick and crunchy, giving the song a heavier industrial-metal edge. The drums pound relentlessly, keeping the energy high while maintaining that hypnotic, almost ritualistic groove. The overall tempo is slightly more aggressive than the studio version, further amplifying its dark, apocalyptic feel.

Sound Quality

Since this is an FM broadcast rather than a standard audience bootleg, the sound quality is significantly better than most unofficial live recordings. The mix is clear, with Manson’s vocals sitting prominently over the instrumentation. There’s a satisfying weight to the low end, and the guitars cut through without distortion, which is often an issue with bootlegs. Some minor compression and radio static are noticeable in certain moments, but overall, the quality makes for an enjoyable listen—certainly one of the cleaner live recordings from this era.

Overall Impression

This 1998 FM broadcast from Tilburg is an essential listen for fans of Manson’s live performances, especially from the Mechanical Animals era. His version of Personal Jesus here is haunting, aggressive, and brimming with the dark charisma that made his concerts infamous. The clarity of the recording makes it a standout among unofficial releases, capturing the raw intensity without sacrificing too much fidelity. If you’re a collector of rare live Manson recordings or simply appreciate his unique takes on classic songs, this is a must-have.

Rating: 8.5/10 – A powerful, well-recorded live performance showcasing Manson at his peak.

BY RUE MORGUE RECORDS