(This package includes a DVD.)

For fans of Simple Plan, it just doesn't get much better than MTV Hard Rock Live. Thanks to great production, the disc carries all the energy of a live performance while at the same time offering crystal-clear acoustics. The combination makes for a sort of "best of" Simple Plan disc that has the added benefit of the band's boisterous personality.

This disc is a combination of favorites from the band's first two albums, and it kicks off with the angst-ridden "Shut Up!" before leaping into "Jump." Ready-made for live shows, "Jump" carries the familiar theme of being bored with one's life and wanting to just forget about everything and cut loose for a while. This song proves to be a crowd pleaser, seemingly injecting the audience with the band's own over-the-top energy.

"The Worst Day Ever," from Simple Plan's first album, also chronicles a day in the life of someone who is bored and dissatisfied. He feels like he is living the same day over and over, and nothing ever gets better. This song remains a fine example of the band's catchy hooks and leans more toward Simple Plan's punk side. Despite the sense of frustration, the song manages to feel upbeat, which is a feat in itself.

"Thank You," from the disc Still Not Getting Any, is a bitter good-bye to someone who has betrayed a strong friendship. Sarcastically thanking the former friend for his betrayal and lies, he offers to return everything -- including the memory of all the good times they once shared. There's an underlying current of sadness to this defiant rocker, making it a very compelling track.

"Welcome to My Life" has all the angst needed for a good punk song, but also has all the right hooks for a way-above-average pop tune. It captures all the boredom and frustration of feeling misplaced and alone. This is the song that introduced many fans to Simple Plan, and the crowd participation on this one proves that it's still a big hit.

The band offers up a fuel-injected version of "Crazy" about halfway through the disc, but gives fans a bonus with a studio acoustic version of the song as the final track. The rock ballad about the sad state of affairs in the world today is even more stirring in acoustic form. The song is an unexpected, solemn benediction to a rousing disc, but Simple Plan manages to make this thoughtful nugget seem right at home.

Fans will still have to wait for new material from this Canadian quintet. MTV Hard Rock Live is fresh enough to hold them over, but ultimately it may just leave them longing for more.

By Paula Felps