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2021:

 

 Alex Henry Foster – Standing Under Bright Lights

Alex Henry Foster – Standing Under Bright Lights:
Live From Festival international de Jazz de Montréal
(2 CD + DVD)

After almost 10 years as the lead singer of Your Favorite Enemies, Alex Henry Foster gave his first concert under his own name in July 2019 at the Club Soda as part of the Montreal International Jazz Festival, following his debut solo album released eight months earlier (Windows in the Sky). It is this performance of over two hours that is offered on this double CD accompanied by a DVD. The concert was intended to be a unique event paying homage to his father who died five years earlier. The singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist played the entire Windows in the Sky album, accompanied by 11 musicians and the screening of a film directed by Foster, Immersion Sky, which can be found as a bonus on the DVD. Renowned lighting designer Pascal Boily created from Foster's vision a unique scenic installation, offering an immersive universe where music, projections and lighting coexisted. Foster wanted viewers not to feel like they were watching a concert but rather like being completely in the moment. Even on DVD the result turns out to be extremely successful when you immediately find yourself inside this extraordinary music bubble. Here is a memorable show that can obviously be listened to on CD, but which really makes sense with the images. (April 2021)

Extract: « Winter is Coming In »

Hopeful Tragedy / SIX

 

HorrorPops – Live at the Wiltern (DVD, Blu-ray, CD)

HorrorPops – Live at the Wiltern (DVD, Blu-ray, CD)

In this year of the 25th anniversary of the Danish psychobilly band, HorrorPops presents a 19-track live recording on DVD, Blu-ray and CD. Singer and double bassist Patricia Day, guitarist Kim Nekroman (Nekromantix) and drummer Henrik Niedermeier put on a standout performance after nine years of absence on stage, a performance recorded at the Wiltern Theater in Los Angeles, California. Their style is unique, and it fuses rockabilly, punk rock, new wave and ska. The band gives us 68 minutes of energetic and contagious music, including the hits "Walk Like a Zombie", "Miss Take" and "Psychobitches Outta Hell". So, here's a great gig, not only for fans of HorrorPops, but also Nekromantix and psychobilly fans in general. (September 2021)

Trailer

MVD

     

 

 

2019:

 

 Nekromantix – 3 Decades of Darkle (Blu-ray + DVD + CD)

Nekromantix – 3 Decades of Darkle (Blu-ray + DVD + CD)

The Danish-American psychobilly band is celebrating 30 years of career this year. The trio presents a video recorded live at the Observatory Theater in Santa Ana, California and directed by Vicente Cordero (3Teeth, Room 37: The Mysterious Death of Johnny Thunders). You can rediscover 19 of the best tracks of the group in career, played with a still overflowing energy. Kim Nekroman and his band fill up our ears with this blu-ray disc (accompanied by a standard DVD and audio CD). In addition to the concert, you can hear an interview with the band and see rare photos. (December 2019)

Cleopatra / MVD

½

   

 

 

2018:

 

 Sheryl Crow – Live at the Capitol Theatre, 2017 Be Myself Tour (Blu-ray, 2 CD)

Sheryl Crow – Live at the Capitol Theatre, 2017 Be Myself Tour (Blu-ray, 2 CD)

On November 10, 2017, as part of her Be Myself tour, Sheryl Crow performed for the first time in the historic Capitol Theater in Port Chester, New York. It was the last concert of the tour and there seemed to be some magic in the air, something electric in this mythical venue. We can discover this unforgettable performance on this blu-ray which is also accompanied by 2 CDs. Sheryl sings all her greatest hits, from the very first ("Leaving Las Vegas") to excerpts from her latest album ("Halfway There", "Atom Bomb" and the title track). You can hear the inevitable "All I Wanna Do", "Everyday is a Winding Road", "If It Makes You Happy", "The First Cut is the Deepest", "A Change Would Do You Good", "Soak Up the Sun", "My Favorite Mistake", and many more. The concert was captured with 16 cameras and the sound was mixed in 5.1 surround sound for optimal reproduction of the live concert. You can also hear interview tips with Sheryl between some songs. Here is a high-quality concert recording. (February 2019)

Rock Fuel / Cleopatra / MVD

 

 

 

2017:

 

 A Tribute to Les Paul: From Universal Studios Hollywood (DVD)

A Tribute to Les Paul: From Universal Studios Hollywood (DVD)

Deceased in 2009, Les Paul has influenced several generations of guitarists, especially thanks to his invention of the guitar of the same name marketed by Gibson. This DVD presents a tribute to Les Paul with excerpts from a concert for his 90th birthday captured at Universal Studios in Hollywood and featuring prominent guitarists performing with this legendary guitar. We can hear Slash, Joe Satriani, Buddy Guy, Joe Perry, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Steve Lukather, etc. The performances on stage, often of very high quality, are interspersed with interviews with the musicians. One can also discover rare interviews with Les Paul himself which are particularly interesting to discover his progress, what he had in mind at the time, both for his invention of the guitar and the 8-track recorder. Here is a quality tribute to this great legend of music. (December 2017)

MVD

½

   

 

2016:

 

 Josh Groban – Stages Live (DVD + CD)

Josh Groban Stages Live (DVD + CD)

After his Stages album in 2015 that revisits classic musicals like Broadway’s, Josh Groban has carried these timeless songs on stage in Los Angeles. This is the show that is presented on an 87-minute DVD with the best moments on CD. We can hear among others parts from the Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables and Carousel, in addition to "Le temps des cathédrales" from Notre-Dame de Paris. You can even hear an excerpt of the movie The Wizard of Oz, "Over the Rainbow". There are two exceptional duets with Kelly Clarkson and Audra McDonald, the latter in a live studio recording since she could not be on stage the night of the concert. The DVD features a large show with many musicians on stage. We can find in bonus a 22-minute behind-the-scenes documentary. As for the CD, it contains a bonus studio track for "Unusual Way". The DVD will certainly appeal to the fans of the singer. (March 2016)

Trailer

Reprise / Warner

½

   

 

2015:

 

 Ian Kelly – Live: All These Lines Tour (DVD)

Ian KellyLive: All These Lines Tour

The Montreal folk rock singer did a capture of a show of his All These Lines tour on December 3rd, 2014 at the Théâtre du Vieux-Terrebonne. This concert is presented on this 98-minute DVD. Kelly is accompanied by three talented musicians in Josh Toal (guitar and bass), Jonathan Cayer (keyboards and trombone) and Kevin Warren (drums), allowing him to offer his best songs in the best environment, with magnificent arrangements. Of course we can hear most of the songs from his latest album, but also the greatest hits of his previous three records including "Parliament", "Take Me Home" and "I Would Have You". Here is a very nice way to discover the talent of this artist from Montreal. (August 2015)

Sunset Hill

½

 Kylie – Kiss Me Once: Live at the SSE Hydro (DVD + 2 CD)

KylieKiss Me Once: Live at the SSE Hydro (DVD + 2 CD)

For the Kiss Me Once tour, Kylie Minogue has performed many spectacular concerts. It is this atmosphere that is presented on this DVD of 110 minutes while we find the Australian queen of pop music at her best in a context of large-scale dance pop in Glasgow, Scotland. That's when you see an artist like Kylie, performing without lip-sync, you realize that it's not all pop singers who have talent. This little woman of just over 5 feet controls the crowd at will throughout the show without ever running out of breath or energy, always performing her greatest hits nicely. Disco becomes fashionable when Kylie sings songs like "On a Night Like This". Then her list of hits is always nice to hear, especially in such an atmosphere. If Madonna is the undisputed queen of pop, Kylie takes control of the Australian side with an essential European dimension. (April 2015)

Parlophone / Warner

½

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2014:

 

GG Allin – Uncensored: Live 1993 (DVD)

GG AllinUncensored: Live 1993

Here is a DVD that includes concerts and behind the scenes footage during the last tour by provocateur GG Allin in 1993, shortly before his death on June 28. There are shows in New Orleans and Houston on May 16 and 17, as well as Chicago and Detroit on June 4 and 6, for a total of 110 minutes. Notice to the faint of heart, you will see this bad guy of punk urinate and defecate on stage every time he wants to. (July 2014)

MVD

½

Jack Bruce – The 50th Birthday Concerts (2 DVD)

Jack Bruce The 50th Birthday Concerts (2 DVD)

The former member of Cream celebrated his 50th anniversary on May 14, 1993. On November 2 and 3 of the same year, he decided to celebrate in style by inviting on stage at E-Werk in Cologne his longtime friend Ginger Baker (drums), Dick Heckstall-Smith (saxophone) and Clem Clempson (guitar). Special guests as drummer Simon Phillips, pianist Bernie Worrell and the late guitarist Gary Moore also came on stage with him to interpret Cream classics and many songs of his solo repertoire. The death of Jack Bruce of cancer on October 25 gives a new quasi-mystical dimension to this double DVD captured on these two magical nights. In addition to the 2-DVD version, we find on the market a 2-DVD + CD version as well as a 3-DVD + CD version. (December 2014)

MIG / MVD

½

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Coldplay – Ghost Stories – Live 2014 (DVD + CD)

ColdplayGhost Stories – Live 2014 (DVD + CD)

Only a few months after the release of Ghost Stories, Coldplay issues a DVD with live recordings of the 9 songs of the album. They were captured in London, Sydney, Paris, New York, Cologne and Los Angeles. Because of the DVD quality production, the CD that accompanies it becomes rather not useful. As long as you listen to the same 9 songs, you are better to listen to the studio album. The strength of the DVD is its beautiful images. There are also many extras, including music videos and other live versions. (December 2014)

Parlophone / Warner

½

Devo – The Men Who Make the Music (DVD)

DevoThe Men Who Make the Music

On this DVD, you can see the band completely crazy in action with concert footage dating from 1978-79 and often surrealistic videos. The whole is interspersed with a film not much less crazy about their alleged rocky relationship with "Big Entertainment". As a bonus, you can discover Devo on stage in 1996 when they closed the Sundance Film Festival. They were wearing prisoner suits of the 1920s and presented old songs back to the early 1970s, even before they got a record deal. This DVD offers a good way to discover the new wave band if you are not familiar with their particular universe. Otherwise, do not forget to open your mind because conventional is completely absent during the 114 minutes of the DVD. (December 2014)

MVD

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D.O.A. – To Hell N’ Back: The Godfathers of Hardcore Live (DVD + CD)

D.O.A.To Hell N’ Back: The Godfathers of Hardcore Live (DVD + CD)

A few months ago, we learned that the legendary hardcore punk band from Vancouver would step down after this tour, thereby creating a particular interest around this farewell tour. They are already making a career assessment that begins in a good way with this DVD including footage from four concerts captured between 2011 and 2013 in Alberta and at home in Vancouver. Joe "Shithead" Keithley and his band offer 30 of the most important songs of their repertoire in the context where they are the most comfortable, on stage. As a bonus, their most recent album, We Come in Peace, is also included and as a bonus on the DVD there is an overview of the recording of the album in the studio. (June 2014)

Sudden Death / MVD

½

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Morrissey – Introducing Morrissey (DVD)

MorrisseyIntroducing Morrissey

Here is the DVD reissue of a concert originally released in 1996. The footage was captured over two nights at Sheffield's City Hall and the Winter Gardens in Blackpool during his 1995 U.K. tour. The 62-minute concert includes 15 of his best songs with excellent sound quality. Certain camera angles can be annoying, but they do not interfere too much with the quality of the show. (December 2014)

Reprise / Rhino / Warner

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2013:

 

Eric Clapton - Crossroads: Eric Clapton Guitar Festival (2 DVD)

Eric Clapton - Crossroads: Eric Clapton Guitar Festival (2 DVD)

Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Guitar Festival, is held every three years since 2004. This is a benefit concert to raise money for the Crossroads Centre in Antigua. Held outside since its debut, the festival was now presented inside the Madison Square Garden in New York for its 2013 edition. The 2 DVDs present the concert that took place on April 12 and 13, as well as very short footage from interviews for a total of nearly 5 hours of material. We can hear some of the best guitarists in the world in the blues rock style, starting with Clapton himself, but also including Booker T, Robert Cray, Doyle Bramhall II, Gary Clark Jr., John Mayer, Allman Brothers Band, Los Lobos, Vince Gill, Taj Mahal, Jeff Beck and many others. You can also see short appearances of legends like Albert Lee, BB King, Buddy Guy, Keith Richards and Robbie Robertson. Fans of blues will open wide their eyes and ears with this beautiful concert to be savored slowly despite its length. In addition to the two DVDs and Blu-ray discs, it is possible to obtain a double CD containing the best of the live performances. All profits will go to the Crossroads Centre, which aims to help people addicted to drugs and alcohol. (December 2013)

Reprise / Rhino / Warner

½

Einstürzende Neubauten – Live at Rockpalast 1990 (DVD + CD)

Einstürzende NeubautenLive at Rockpalast 1990 (DVD + CD)

The German collective Einstürzende Neubauten (good luck to say it if you do not speak German!) was crossing a creative peak in its career when it appeared at Rockpalast in 1990 for a concert now immortalized on DVD and CD. There are 16 tracks by the experimental industrial group including the classics "Gung" and "Feurio". The band is here the best example of industrial music as the percussionist does not hesitate to rub or tap plates and metal bars, not to mention the use of electronic beats. For its creative madness, the group is definitely not accessible to everyone, but if you like avant-garde music, you are likely to enjoy this concert of more than 70 minutes. (June 2013)

MIG / MVD

Europe – Live at Sweden Rock: 30th Anniversary Show (DVD)

EuropeLive at Sweden Rock: 30th Anniversary Show

The Swedish hard rock band celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2013, and for the occasion they gave an excellent concert to 30,000 of their fans at the Sweden Rock Festival on June 7. During that event, the group performed no less than 28 tracks. Obviously their greatest hits are included: "Carrie", "Rock the Night", "Superstitious", "In the Future to Come", "Open Your Heart" and the classic "The Final Countdown". But Europe also presented many rarities, either old or newer songs they rarely played live or even never in some cases. There are among others several tracks from their 4 latest albums, after their comeback in the 2000s. Fans of the band of the 1980s will certainly find it difficult to appreciate, but I must admit they have some interesting songs. The concert changes of beat at a time to make room for an acoustic performance of two songs, a nice break in the heart of this 2 hour and 25 minute concert. The band plays two covers and invites for the occasion members of the original groups. This is the case for Michael Schenker (Scorpions, UFO, MSG), which appeared for UFO’s "Lights Out", as well as Scott Gorham (Thin Lizzy) who plays on Thin Lizzy’s "Jailbreak". The DVD (and Blu-ray) was produced masterfully by Patric Ullaeus, with beautiful images provided among others by a flying camera. One can also get the concert on 2 CDs. (February 2014)

Hell & Back / MVD

½

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Iggy & The Stooges – Tribute to Ron Asheton (DVD)

Iggy & The StoogesTribute to Ron Asheton

On April 19, 2011 in Ann Arbor, Michigan there was a tribute concert to the late Ron Asheton, guitarist and bassist of The Stooges. The event brought together on stage Iggy & The Stooges, but also Henry Rollins as MC and singer on "I Got a Right", guest guitarist Deniz Tek (Radio Birdman) and a string and brass section to interpret the greatest hits of The Stooges. After a long speech by Rollins, the DVD contains 20 tracks of the band for about an hour and 30 minutes. All proceeds from the DVD will go to the Ron Asheton Foundation. (June 2013)

MVD

½

Muse – Live at Rome Olympic Stadium (Blu-ray + CD)

MuseLive at Rome Olympic Stadium (Blu-ray + CD)

The music of Muse is designated to the stage because it is theatrical and larger than life. This is why a concert by the trio automatically becomes a major event. For the tour of the album The 2nd Law, the group did not skimp on resources by presenting a spectacular show with pyrotechnics, lasers, giant screens, and more. So it is with the Blu-ray (or the DVD) that you truly discover what Muse is capable of on stage. Indeed, despite the sound quality of the CD, you'll feel it misses the point. Most of the greatest hits of the trio are included on the Blu-ray, with the 13 best ones presented on the CD. Extras are included for performances in Las Vegas and Dallas, as well as a documentary, The Road. Although the H.A.A.R.P. DVD issued in 2008 showed a better sequence of songs, Live at Rome Olympic Stadium offers a more complete experience for the senses. (December 2013)

Warner

½

Scissor Sisters – Live in Victoria Park, London 2011 (DVD)

Scissor SistersLive in Victoria Park, London 2011

On July 17, 2011, despite the rain, the Scissor Sisters were on fire during their performance at the Lovebox Festival in Victoria Park, London. In the wake of the release of Night Work, they presented several pieces from this album and all of their greatest hits at that moment. These included of course the inevitable "I Don’t Feel Like Dancing", "Fire with Fire" and their very personal version of Pink Floyd’s "Comfortably Numb". The DVD features 51 minutes of their show, plus two bonus songs from Night Work, "Harder You Get" and "Running Out". (July 2013)

Wienerworld / MVD

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2012:

 

GG Allin & The Murder Junkies – Blood, Shit, and Fears

GG Allin & The Murder JunkiesBlood, Shit, and Fears

GG Allin is considered by many as the greatest degenerate in rock history, since its sole purpose was to provoke and disgust. On this DVD, you can see him at work in three short shows where mutilation, defecation and confrontation with the public are dominating. These performances of late 1991 show him at the peak of his provocation. You should avoid watching it when having your meal for a cause of guaranteed nausea. The main benefit of watching this performance on DVD is to be safe in the comfort of your home. You will find in bonus two performances from May 1993, captured just a month before his death from an overdose at the age of 36. We see him decreased physically and greatly affected by drugs and alcohol. Rather uninteresting musically, his hardcore punk "work" is based primarily on provocation and anti-conformism. So even if the sound is totally bad on the DVD, nobody will really bother. Rather, it is the rest that may be offending. Sensitive persons should avoid this and please, do not leave the DVD too close to your children... (September 2012)

MVD

The Archers of Loaf – What Did You Expect? Live at Cat’s Cradle (DVD)

The Archers of LoafWhat Did You Expect? Live at Cat’s Cradle

After ten years of hiatus, the indie rock band reunited in 2011 for a new tour. The Archers of Loaf have offered among others two unannounced concerts at Cat's Cradle in their hometown of Chapel Hill, North Carolina. The highlights of these concerts are presented on this DVD of an hour and a half. We can hear 20 songs including the inevitable "Audiowhore", "Harnessed in Slums" and "Web in Front". Very well shot with multiple cameras, the concerts benefit in addition of an excellent sound quality. The DVD also presents excerpts of interviews with the four members of the group. The main drawback is that these interviews are fit between songs, breaking the energetic atmosphere of the stage. Otherwise, we find the band in top shape, much to the delight of their fans. Note that there are six other bonus songs, as well as four additional interviews with members of the band. (March 2013)

MVD

½

Holly Cole - Steal the Night (DVD + CD)

Holly Cole - Steal the Night (DVD + CD)

Halifax jazz singer Holly Cole seduced her audience for over 20 years with a powerful and moving voice. On August 11, 2011, she offered with her trio a very smooth performance at the Glenn Gould Studio in Toronto. Captured in high definition and recorded in 5.1 surround sound, this unique concert is presented to us today in a CD/DVD combo of high quality. The centerpiece is of course the DVD which is making us appreciate the overall performance in addition to providing extra documentaries and a bonus Christmas song. Unfortunately, we would have taken a little more than the 47 minutes of the main program, while Holly seems to warm-up gradually to something better to come, as if it was only the first part of a larger concert. The CD meanwhile contains only nine tracks of the DVD in a different pacing for a slim total of 38 minutes. The whole is still very interesting and gives us the opportunity to discover with class this singer with exceptional talent. For fans of vocal jazz... (May 2012)

Videos: « I Can See Clearly Now » - « You’ve Got a Secret »

Alert

½

The Damned – Tiki Nightmare: Live Live Live in London 2002 (DVD)

The DamnedTiki Nightmare: Live Live Live in London 2002

In 2002, one of the first bands of the British punk invasion of the 1970s, The Damned, showed that they still had all their composure on stage. On July 31, the group offered indeed a remarkable performance at Shepherds Bush Empire, a performance that was captured and is now presented on DVD. The 86-minute concert features original members Dave Vanian (vocals) and Captain Sensible (guitar), along with Patricia Morrison on bass (ex-Gun Club and Sisters of Mercy), the dynamic Monty Oxy Moron on keyboards and Pinch on drums. The group performs many recent songs, but also its classics "Neat Neat Neat", "New Rose", "Smash It Up" and "Eloise". Captain Sensible even took the microphone for a brief rendition of his hit "Happy Talk". Great picture and sound quality makes good justice to this band that remains very solid in concert. The DVD also features many extras including interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, home movies and more. (May 2013)

Wienerworld / MVD

½

Dinosaur Jr. – Bug Live at 9:30 Club: In the Hands of the Fans (DVD)

Dinosaur Jr.Bug Live at 9:30 Club: In the Hands of the Fans

In June 2011, American alternative trio Dinosaur Jr. played entirely its classic album Bug at the 9:30 Club in Washington, DC. For the occasion, a contest was launched online and six fans were selected to film that very special concert. They could also carry an exclusive interview with their heroes. The project was directed by Dave Markey (Sonic Youth), which also interviewed J. Mascis (singer and guitarist) and Henry Rollins (Black Flag, Rollins Band) as a bonus on the DVD. One can also hear from Mike Watt (Minutemen, Porno For Pyros), Keith Morris (Black Flag, Circle Jerks) and Ian MacKaye (Minor Threat, Fugazi). Finally, as bonus, there are two additional songs captured in concert: "In a Jar" and "The Wagon". So, here is a DVD any fan of Dinosaur Jr. must have. (July 2012)

MVD

Divinyls – Live: Jailhouse Rock (DVD)

DivinylsLive: Jailhouse Rock

The Divinyls are an Australian new wave rock band that recorded five albums between 1983 and 1996. Led by charismatic female singer Chrissie Amphlett, the group presents a concert recorded in 1993 at the Boggo Road Prison in Queensland (with Rose Tattoo and Billy Thorpe). There are obviously all their greatest hits, including the inevitable "I Touch Myself". Unfortunately, the performance was not exceptional and it does not in any way enhance the compositions of the band, which in addition are not all really good. The concert of nearly one hour and a half leaves us more or less on our appetite. There are only the greatest Divinyls fans who may be satisfied. (October 2012)

Umbrella / MVD

John Lee Hooker – Cook with the Hook: Live in 1974 (DVD)

John Lee HookerCook with the Hook: Live in 1974

On July 6, 1974, the legendary bluesman from Mississippi John Lee Hooker gave a unique performance as part of a one-day festival in Gardner, Massachusetts. This 45-minute show was filmed by 3 cameras and broadcast on a local television. It is now available on DVD for the delight of his fans. Unfortunately, the sound quality is poor, as well as the picture quality in black and white with unnecessary effects of camera changes. Hooker presents some of his classics, plus a medley as encore. Even if it is a unique concert which makes the document precious, few people may enjoy except for his biggest fans. (November 2012)

MVD

Michael Kaeshammer - Kaeshammer Live! (DVD + CD)

Michael Kaeshammer - Kaeshammer Live! (DVD + CD)

Jazz pianist and singer Michael Kaeshammer offered a strong performance on Decembre 13, 2010 at the Great Hall in Toronto. That performance was captured in high definition and it is now available on DVD with surround sound. Lasting one hour and 7 minutes, the DVD features 10 of the most popular songs of his repertoire, with some room for improvisation. A CD is also presented including only 5 tracks from the DVD for a total of 34 minutes. It is therefore not very useful and it is especially the DVD that would catch your attention. (June 2012)

Alert

½

Rose Tattoo – Live from Boggo Road Jail 1993 (DVD)

Rose TattooLive from Boggo Road Jail 1993

The guys of Rose Tattoo are considered as the bad boys of Australian hard rock with songs like "Bad Boy for Love" and "Rock 'n' Roll Outlaw". In 1993, for the closing of the Boggo Road Jail, the original members reunited to give a huge concert along with the Divinyls and Billy Thorpe and the Aztecs. Angry Anderson and his band then delivered an energetic concert including their 11 best songs in career. This 54-minute concert is presented on DVD when the band managed to prove that it still has all the energy of its debut in 1976. Among the highlights, you can hear among others "Nice Boys" (which was covered by Guns N 'Roses a few years before that show), their very personal version of "Street Fighting Man" of the Rolling Stones, and "Going Down " of Jeff Beck in conclusion. (August 2012)

Umbrella / MVD

The Stranglers – On Stage, On Screen

The StranglersOn Stage, On Screen

The Stranglers were part of the British punk invasion of the late 1970s, although their style was closer to new wave than the punk sound of the Sex Pistols. On this DVD, we find a band that was still in great shape in December 2005 during its visit to the Shepherd's Bush Empire. It includes first an excellent electric concert of 79 minutes with their greatest hits including the inevitable "All Day and All of the Night". Then, the group offers a 29-minute acoustic performance including classics like "Strange Little Girl" and "Still Life". Finally, the DVD includes a short film, Norfolk Coast, featuring bassist Jean-Jacques Burnel, the late Susannah York in her last performance, Nicholas Ball and Lynsey Baxter, plus rather weird cameos by members of the group. Here is an excellent DVD that will surely please the fans of The Stranglers. (June 2013)

Wienerworld / MVD

½

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Stryper – Live in Indonesia at the Java Rockin’Land (DVD)

StryperLive in Indonesia at the Java Rockin’Land

With nearly 30 years of existence, the Christian hard rock band from California is certainly one of the most durable in the genre. This DVD presents a concert captured in 2010 at the Java Rockin'Land festival in Indonesia. The group that is in great shape presents its most popular songs in front of a huge crowd. As the sound quality is impeccable as well as the visual, you can enjoy every moment of the concert as if you were there. So this is a great gift that is offered to us on the eve of the 30th anniversary of Stryper. (April 2013)

MVD

½

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CONCERT DVDs BEFORE 2012:

 

AC/DC - No Bull: The Directors Cut (DVD)

AC/DC - No Bull: The Directors Cut (2008)

The least we could say is that only a few seconds are necessary to the guys of AC/DC to install their energy on stage. The first track, the classic “Back In Black”, is not even finished that the crowd is already well warmed up. And this involving rock n' roll will continue for 2 hours. The concert for No Bull was captured on July 10, 1996 in Madrid, Spain, whereas the band toured all around the world with the Ballbreaker Tour. Released quickly, the DVD didn’t totally satisfy the producer David Mallet. The concert was thus completely re-edited in high definition, and the sound was remixed, as much in its stereo version than in 5.1 surround sound. Without being as great as Live At Donington issued in 1992, this improved version of No Bull succeeds in showing us a good outline of the unique performances on stage by this Australian group with a contagious energy. They play obviously all their classics: there are 20 of them, without counting the 2 bonuses recorded in Sweden (“Cover You In Oil”) and in Florida (“Down Payment Blues”). In fact, the main inconvenient about this DVD is that Brian Johnson has a rather defective voice, him being usually an exceptional screamer. Fortunately, the rhythm section is as good as its reputation and Angus Young always succeeds in impressing us with his guitar and his dance steps. He is straightforwardly untiring! In end of line, No Bull is a very good DVD which gives a right outline of the band in concert, even with a Johnson who is not at the top of his shape. (November 2008)

Columbia / Sony BMG

Anathema - A Moment in Time DVD

Anathema, A Moment In Time (2006)

The metal band from Liverpool, England Anathema was formed about 15 years ago already. Close to death metal when they started, they offer now a type of atmospheric goth metal not very far from the British progressive rock of the 70’s (most of all Pink Floyd). A Moment In Time gives us a concert captured in March 2006 at Metalmania Festival Spodek, Katowice, Poland. The band is greatly supported on stage by a string quartet which skillfully emphasizes some of the compositions of the band. There are however tracks that can seem annoying to non initiates, but we can appreciate anyway all their talent and the fans will be totally pleased. In bonus, there are 4 tracks from a concert in Krakow in 2004 and an interview with members of the band. (October 2006)

MVD

Arctic Monkeys - At the Apollo (DVD + CD)

Arctic Monkeys - At the Apollo (DVD + CD) (2009)

The British new stars of the years 2000, Arctic Monkeys, arrive with a first DVD, after only 2 albums. It should be said that their success was particularly fulgurating right at their debut. The young band from Sheffield, England presents a concert at the Apollo in Manchester during which we can hear the best of their small repertory to date. Performed with a very good balance on stage, worthy of a group much more experimented, the show gives an excellent portrait of this indie rock band well of its time. Without being exceptional, the performance is solid and will please undoubtedly their young fans. In bonus, we can find a CD containing a concert recorded in Texas in June 2006. The CD has the main quality to present other songs by the group. The booklet is unfortunately lacking details, but the DVD/CD set offered in digipak CD format will have the advantage of not being too expensive to you. So, here is an essential item for the fans of the band. (June 2009)

Domino / Warner

½

Avenged Sevenfold - Live In The LBC & Diamonds In The Rough (DVD + CD)

Avenged Sevenfold - Live In The LBC & Diamonds In The Rough (DVD + CD) (2008)

Here is a CD/DVD set which I classify in the DVD category for one simple and good reason: the DVD (Live In The LBC) is definitely the piece of resistance of this combo whereas the CD (Diamonds In The Rough) rather acts as a bonus to the set, even if it’s also very good. The DVD presents a concert captured in Long Beach, California in April 2008, including the 12 greatest hits of the band during more than 76 minutes. An exceptional sound and superb visual help to emphasize the group which is in a very great shape, including M. Shadows whose voice is at its best. The only moment a little weaker in the concert is when they bring a fan on stage to sing “Walk” of Pantera. Fortunately, he was cut short, but it was disappointing not to hear the full version interpreted by M. Shadows. The concert reminded me per moments of Mötley Crüe because of the atmosphere reigning on stage. The performance could also be compared to a mixture between Linkin Park and System Of A Down. The CD accompanying the DVD contains covers (“Flash Of The Blade” of Iron Maiden and “Walk” of Pantera), rarities, a remix of “Almost Easy” and an alternate version of “Afterlife”. The fans of the band will certainly be pleased with this CD/DVD set. (November 2008)

Warner

Bad Brains - Live at CBGB 1982 DVD

Bad Brains, Live At CBGB 1982 (2006)

In the early 80’s, the hardcore punk band Bad Brains was at the top of its art. For the first time, we can see now images of them in concert on DVD, at the legendary CBGB in New York City for a hardcore festival on Christmas Eve 1982. With duration of almost an hour, the concert gives us a totally crazy atmosphere with the spectators going on stage one after the other and pitching themselves anywhere. The band was true to its reputation with a very energetic performance, despite a small stage (especially with people of the crowd in addition to the band). At a certain point of the show, the fuses blew up and it was a total blackout, which didn’t stop the band. The image quality of the DVD is great and the only negative point of this DVD is the poor sound quality, but the DVD is probably true to the sound they had in the venue that night. I also would have appreciated more bonuses, including maybe an interview with the band. For the fans of Bad Brains, this is a precious piece of collection they will want more than anything else. For the young punk fans, this is a great history lesson… (October 2006)

MVD

Big Audio Dynamite - Live: E=MC2 (DVD)

Big Audio Dynamite, Live: E=MC2 (2007)

When Mick Jones decided to form Big Audio Dynamite after the bursting of The Clash, it’s a wind of freshness which was brought to the danceable pop rock genre. The group innovated indeed thanks to the use of samplings and beat boxes in a music which integrated rock, reggae and hip hop. Personally, I never really liked their music which is despite everything almost the logical continuation of the last recordings of The Clash. But, this performance recorded in 1992 at Town and Country Club in London, England succeeded in reconciling me with their music. Here, it’s the second version of B.A.D. we can see in a particularly energetic performance. I think that we never saw Jones having as much fun on stage, even during the good years of The Clash. He seems like a fish in water. The groovy songs of the band, with a DJ coming to add his touch to the whole as much during the songs than during the breaks, make so that there’s no weak moments in the 50 minutes of the concert which quickly succeeded in raising the crowd to its feet (a crowd that was already convinced but it doesn’t matter). The concert concludes with the classic from Prince, "1999". This is a very simple DVD containing only the concert, without any extras and booklet, but it’s definitely worth the cost if you’re a fan of Mick Jones, even if Big Audio Dynamite never really interested you. (June 2007)

Cherry Red / MVD

Billy Talent - 666 Live (DVD + CD)

Billy Talent - 666 Live (DVD + CD) (2007)

The tour which followed the release of their 2nd album brought Billy Talent almost everywhere around the world, at some of the largest venues. There is a very good outline of it with this DVD and CD package. The DVD contains the equivalent of an entire concert, but divided into 3 cities: Brixton in England, Dusseldorf in Germany and the MTV Rock AM Ring festival in Germany (a mega outside concert). For the CD, one finds the integral concert in Dusseldorf captured on February 20, 2007. The whole is offered to us in a beautiful digipak case, even if the booklet doesn’t explain much and most of all shows photographs of the concerts. The worst thing about the DVD, which is at first sight very interesting, is the weakness of the 5.1 surround sound mixing. Volume varies constantly and at a certain time we have the feeling our system is defective, whereas it’s rather the balance between the instruments which they completely missed, especially when one passes from the whole group to only one instrument and vice versa. In bonus, the DVD offers other photographs on a music background, but it’s too little too late. Whereas the DVD should be the major part of this box, it’s in fact the CD which becomes more interesting and it deserves to pay the price. The fans will surely appreciate nevertheless, in spite of some growls of impatience while listening to the DVD in the 5.1 version. (January 2008)

Warner

Blackalicious - 4/20 Live in Seattle

Blackalicious, 4/20 Live in Seattle (2006)

Blackalicious is a very good hip hop alternative duo and they are offering us now a DVD including an excellent concert, as well as interviews with Gift of Gab and Chief Xcel. The performance is at a top level for the sound as well as for the lighting and the general atmosphere there was at the venue. Gift of Gab raps in a spectacular way on the first track, "Alphabet Aerobics", which is a good way to create quickly a good atmosphere. There are no weaknesses and the 1 hour DVD includes enough material to be interesting without offering unnecessary stuff. Anyway, we can see in bonus a visit of the tour bus as well as the video for the track "Deception". So, the DVD is interesting from the beginning to the end and we can replay the entire concert on a regular basis without having to take all the night. The fans of good hip hop have to discover Blackalicious if it’s not already done and this DVD will help to convince them of the quality of the product they have to offer. A very good choice! (December 2006)

MVD

Blood Sweat & Tears - Spinning Wheel (DVD)

Blood Sweat & Tears, Spinning Wheel (2007)

The band from New York City Blood Sweat & Tears is a perfect fusion between jazz and rock. Several even see them as one of the best groups of all time in the genre. They sold approximately 6 million albums between 1967 and 1978 before splitting. The singer David Clayton-Thomas then reformed the group in 1980 for a record and a tour and it’s one of these concerts we can find here. It was captured at the Civic Theatre of Halifax, England on April 9, 1980. The 7 musicians gave a very good performance, even if I consider that it was more for the jazz fans than for the rock fans. The concert includes the greatest hits of the band, and covers of Billie Holiday ("God Bless The Child") and Jimi Hendrix ("Manic Depression"). With 58 minutes, the DVD doesn’t contain anything more than the concert, but it will recall excellent memories to their fans of that time. (July 2007)

Cherry Red / MVD

James Brown - Double Dynamite! (DVD)

James Brown - Double Dynamite! (2008)

The godfather of soul, James Brown, had ups and downs during the Seventies and Eighties, even if he always continued to tour in a ceaseless way. They present us here 2 performances of high quality captured in 1980 and 1985. Firstly, Brown was on stage at the famous Studio 54 in New York City, la Mecca of disco music, on March 26, 1980. In a very rhythmed performance, Brown offers the best of this famous funk style he created. What can seem somewhat repetitive at the beginning becomes quickly hypnotizing during nearly one hour. In a very different context, we find James Brown on stage at the Chastain Park Amphitheatre of Atlanta in 1985. Whereas it was perhaps during the darkest years of his life, Brown succeeds anyway in offering a great performance, once again in a one-hour concert offering few moments of rest, except maybe for his cover of “Georgia on My Mind” paying tribute to Ray Charles. A beautiful and extremely detailed 13-page booklet comes with the DVD presenting an overview of his career and the history behind the 2 legendary venues in which he performs. This DVD will please every James Brown fan. It’s a quality DVD thanks to a very good surround sound and in spite of a standard format screen image. This is a DVD every fan of this true legend has to own. (April 2009)

Charly / MVD

Buzzcocks - Live At Shepherds Bush Empire 2003 (DVD)

Buzzcocks - Live At Shepherds Bush Empire 2003 (DVD) (2006)

The English punk band Buzzcocks played Shepherds Bush Empire in London on April 27, 2003. That performance was captured and is offered now on DVD for our greater pleasure. We can experience 5.1 surround sound which emphasizes perfectly this excellent concert of the group. They offer nothing less than 32 tracks for a total duration of 95 minutes. The more the concert goes on, the more they manage to raise their level of a notch, for an extremely strong performance. Talking is useless and the group rather prefers to connect the songs together. We can count one problem at the beginning of “Keep On”, whereas the complete confusion reigned when no one knew which song they had to play next. Except for that, these are true pros that we can see on stage, even if the context has changed much for the last 25 years and that the voices are not anymore the same ones. In addition to the concert, the DVD offers many extras, some more interesting than others, the most relevant being a long interview with Pete Shelley and Steve Diggle. A very interesting DVD for the fans of the band and an excellent way of discovering them for younger people… (July 2008)

Secret / MVD

Cactus - Live, Loud & Proud (DVD)

Cactus - Live, Loud & Proud (2010)

Cactus is a hard rock / boogie rock band which had a short life between 1970 and 1972. It was formed at the base of the rhythm section of Vanilla Fudge composed of Carmine Appice on drums and Tim Bogert on bass. The quartet was to be completed first by Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart, but a serious motorcycle accident for Jeff Beck compromised the formation of that super-group. Rod Stewart then went to join Faces and Cactus rather accommodated with Jim McCarty on guitar and Rusty Day on the microphone. After 4 albums and very little success, the band dissolved before making a comeback 34 years later, in 2006, with Jimmy Kunes of Savoy Brown as singer. It’s their 2006-2007 tour which is presented on this DVD whereas we follow the band on various stages. We can see the group offering 13 tracks for a total of over 96 minutes. The performances are not exceptional, even if they are very good musicians. There are few interesting elements for a new audience, therefore, unless having known them well at the time, there are few chances that you would be excited. In bonus, you will be able to see interviews with the members of the band, the video for “The Groover” and comments of Vinnie Moore (UFO), Shawn Drover (Megadeth), Ty Tabor (King's X), Uli Jon Roth (Scorpions), Chad Smith (Red Hot Chile Peppers), and even more. (November 2010)

MVD

Chic - Live At The Budokan (DVD)

Chic - Live At The Budokan (2008)

Guitarist Nile Rodgers and bass player Bernard Edwards led the funky disco group Chic to the top in the late Seventies. But they didn’t stop there because they also wrote and produced the 2 greatest hits of Sister Sledge, “He's The Greatest Dancer” and “We Are Family”, in addition to working with David Bowie, Mick Jagger, Madonna and Diana Ross. This DVD presents the last concert of the band, recorded on April 16, 1996 in Tokyo, 2 days before the death of Bernard Edwards of pneumonia. The DVD thus wants to pay tribute to the late bass player and besides, we can find 2 tribute articles in the bonus features of the DVD. The 69-minute concert presents of course the greatest hits of the band (“Freak”, “Dance, Dance, Dance”, ““Good Times”, and more). Sister Sledge also come to sing their 2 greatest hits, without forgetting Slash (former Guns N’ Roses) which comes to electrify “Freak” of a guitar solo to frighten the Japanese crowd that came to hear disco music and only disco music. The most interesting aspect with Chic is their funky sound of a great musical richness which doesn’t become obsolete and remains effective on stage 20 years later. Rodgers makes and introduction and a conclusion to the concert, not failing to thank his late colleague and friend. He also comments on the performance in another version of the concert offered in bonus. In conclusion, this is a DVD of first quality presenting and emphasizing well one of the best groups of the disco era. The booklet also presents many interesting details. (March 2009)

Charly / MVD

Elvis Costello - Spectacle: Elvis Costello with… (2 DVD)

Elvis Costello - Spectacle: Elvis Costello with… (2 DVD) (2011)

The television show Spectacle was a success in its first season. This double DVD presents the seven episodes of season two, when the legendary Elvis Costello continues his excellent work, both as an interviewer and as a musician to accompany his guests with his band The Imposters. The first episode features Bono and The Edge of U2 in a very interesting interview interspersed with a few great performances. The formula changes slightly in the second episode, while Costello is surrounded by Sheryl Crow, Ron Sexsmith, Neko Case and Jesse Winchester for several musical performances interrupted only by a few words with the guests. In the next episode, Costello literally creates a band before our eyes by bringing together his former record producer Nick Lowe on bass, legendary pianist Allen Toussaint, guitarist Richard Thompson and drummer Levon Helm from The Band. Episode #4 is a bit special when Costello himself is featured, interviewed by Mary-Louise Parker. The fifth episode features Lyle Lovett, John Prine and Ray Lamontagne in performance and interview. Finally, the last two episodes are devoted to Bruce Springsteen. Beautiful images and great surround sound make this double DVD a must for any music lover. In addition, the concept of the show by itself and the efficiency of Costello are such to make us rediscover the guest artists, both in interview and performance. The only negative point is that you would like to hear a lot of other pieces by your favorite artists. In conclusion, Spectacle is a quality show, perfectly highlighted on DVD. (October 2011)

Tri-Fi 2 / MVD

½

D.O.A. - Smash The State: The Raw Original D.O.A. 1978-81

D.O.A. - Smash The State: The Raw Original D.O.A. 1978-81 (2007)

The punk group from Vancouver, Dead On Arrival (D.O.A.), had an important influence on contemporary punk music. We find them here at the top of their career in various performances, primarily in the San Francisco Bay where they were very successful on stage. We can hear more than 20 tracks as well as bonuses (the video for “World War 3”, a report with interviews). The recording quality is far from being perfect, but fortunately it doesn’t prevent from discovering the incomparable energy of the group in concert. This is a DVD which will enable you to suitably discover this single group of the Canadian punk scene. (June 2008)

Sudden Death / MVD

Snoop Dogg - Drop It Like It's Hot (DVD)

Snoop Dogg - Drop It Like It's Hot (2008)

This star of gangsta rap presents here a concert which was captured on February 23, 2005 in Brussels, Belgium. Snoop Dogg offers an excellent performance, worthy of his reputation, even if he is most of the time rather static on stage. The addition of female dancers on some tracks helps for the atmosphere and makes the show a little more dynamic. He plays nothing less than 20 tracks for a total of 68 minutes. We can hear obviously most of his greatest hits including “P.I.M.P.” and “Drop It Like It's Hot”. In bonus, we can also hear 2 tracks captured at Sumfest in Jamaica in 2001, “Wrong Idea” and “Deep Cover”. We can as well read the 10 commandments as they originally appeared in Q magazine and 10 minutes of before the concert footage. In addition to the DVD, we can read a very detailed 20-page booklet including his biography, filmography, various contributions and appearances, discography and a chronology of the most important events since the beginning of his career in 1992. In end of line, Drop It Like It's Hot is an excellent DVD, a necessary purchase for his numerous fans. (November 2008)

Charly / MVD

The Drifters - Greatest Hits Live (DVD)

The Drifters, Greatest Hits Live (2007)

The 4 current members of the legendary Drifters offer us for the first time on DVD a Drifters’ concert captured in 2006 in England. We can hear nothing less than 31 songs including all the band’s greatest hits like "Save The Last Dance For Me", "Sweet Caroline", "Come On Over To My Place", "Love Games", "Some Kind Of Wonderful", "Stand By Me" and "Kissin' In The Back Row Of The Movies". The performance is exceptional and we can hear the whole with a surround sound for our greatest pleasure. In bonus, we can see an exclusive performance with Gary Brooker for "A World Of Love", plus various interviews. The concert lasts 104 minutes and the extras add 50 more minutes to this very generous DVD. For the nostalgic ones of R&B of the 50’s and 60’s, it acts as a superb DVD which recreates perfectly the mood of that era, even if the 4 current members were not even born at the time... (September 2007)

MVD

Emerson Lake & Palmer - 40th Anniversary Reunion Concert (DVD)

Emerson Lake & Palmer - 40th Anniversary Reunion Concert (2011)

On July 25, 2010 at the High Voltage Festival in London, the legendary progressive rock trio reunited for the first time in 12 years. Forty years after their successful debut, the three outstanding musicians proved that they had not lost their magic touch. This is that unforgettable 90-minute concert that is offered to us in its entirety on this DVD, with outstanding sound quality and image, worthy of the work of ELP. Repeatedly named as one of the best keyboard players of his generation, Keith Emerson still impresses with his virtuosity, while for Greg Lake, his voice has never lost its composure. And of course, Carl Palmer always ensures the perfect role of "beat keeper" on drums in this progressive band that has always loved to destabilize its audience. ELP was one of the first rock bands to offer large-scale shows and it is still the case here as the fireworks and stage lighting abound, especially in "Pictures At An Exhibition". But unlike many artists who drown their lack of talent in fireworks, ELP never forget to highlight the talents of the musicians who remain at the heart of the stage performance. Here is an excellent DVD to present an accurate picture of the group who knew perfectly how to merge classical, jazz and rock. The DVD also includes a very interesting documentary of about 30 minutes which allows us to hear the three musicians talk about their career and their reunion concert for the 40th anniversary. As for the booklet, it offers many relevant details about the band and its members. An interesting fact in conclusion: did you know that Jimi Hendrix had been approached to join the band in its debut? The project, which would have been called HELP, unfortunately aborted after the premature death of the legendary guitarist. (November 2011)

Concert One / MVD

Europe - The Final Countdown World Tour DVD

Europe, The Final Countdown Tour 1986 – Live in Sweden (2006)

In 1986, the hard rock band from Sweden Europe reached fame all around the world thanks to the album The Final Countdown and its title-song. Other singles from the album like "Rock the Night", "Cherokee" and the ballad "Carrie" also got big airplay. The band was immediately compared to Bon Jovi and Def Leppard, other very famous bands from that era, but Europe didn’t survive to the 90’s. We heard about a comeback by the band in 2004 (and I don’t care at all about it), but most of all they just released this DVD. It was captured in their own country during the world tour of 1986, 20 years ago. The greatest hits of their career are in fact in this one hour concert which is great visually, in widescreen format. Otherwise, the sound is not very good, despite the possibility we have to listen to it in 5.1 surround sound. In bonus to the concert, we can hear interviews with the band from this year, a visit at the studio where they recorded The Final Countdown album, a gallery of photos and a biography. This DVD is a good way to bring you back into the heart of the 80’s, an era in which the hair was more important than the creativity in rock music. For the ones who could be interested, the band also released recently a new album, Secret Society. (January 2007)

MVD

Eyehategod - Live (DVD)

Eyehategod - Live (2011)

Eyehategod was formed in 1988 in New Orleans and became one of the most important bands of the doom metal scene of the 1990s. Their slow beats and extremely heavy riffs have done of them faithful disciples of Black Sabbath and Black Flag. The group is still constantly touring and this DVD presents two completely different concerts captured in Baltimore in October 2009 and Cleveland in June 2010. The aggressiveness of their music makes sense on stage, and we realize this even more by watching these shows. Unfortunately, musically, few pieces deserve attention and they all serve rather to collective release. As a bonus, you can discover three songs captured in Vienna in April 2010, and three music videos for "Sister Fucker", "Anxiety Hangover" and "Age of Bootcamp". Here is a DVD for fans only... (June 2011)

Digitallive / MVD

Finger Eleven - Us Vs Then Vs Now (DVD + CD)

Finger Eleven - Us Vs Then Vs Now (DVD + CD) (2007)

Here is the first DVD for this Canadian alternative band. It contains 2 performances captured in Toronto and Vancouver in 2007 which enable us to discover all their energy on stage. There’s also a whole list of archive tracks including some in concert, performances at MuchMusic (with one from the time of Rainbow Butt Monkeys), interviews and their videos. You will thus hear all there their hits in a form or another: “Good Times”, the ballad “One Thing”, “First Time”, “Paralyzer” and so on. A CD is also included and it contains 14 rarities: never released songs, demo versions and a remix of “Sick Of It All”. The main disadvantage of the package is that we can hear many different things all mixed up together. On the other hand, what is presented here makes an excellent overview of the group’s career, and the fans as well as the neophytes who will want to discover them will like it as much. Us Vs Then Vs Now has definitely much content for our money! (February 2008)

Wind-up / Warner

½

The Flaming Lips - U.F.O.s At The Zoo: The Legendary Concert In Oklahoma City (DVD)

The Flaming Lips - U.F.O.s At The Zoo: The Legendary Concert In Oklahoma City (2007)

On September 15, 2006, the American alternative group The Flaming Lips performed in a unique concert at the Zoo Amphitheatre in its hometown of Oklahoma City. This much awaited concert by the fans presented a great stage setting around a spaceship from which the band members went down at the beginning of the concert, like aliens. This mothership would take them back at the end of the performance and take off under the crowd acclamations. They definitely made everything they could in terms of lightings, smoke, giant balloons and other artifices, which gave a huge show. The most important negative point of the DVD is that the concert is stopped by short films about the preparation of the concert, including comments of fans. It would have been largely better to be able to view the concert entirely and to have the documentary in bonus. It’s important to note that the DVD, with its 5.1 surround sound, is a MVI (Music Video Interactive). It thus allows, in addition to the concert, to have access to MP3 files for all the live tracks, to make your own ringtones (in the US only with URTone), to make your own mix of “The Yeah Yeah Yeah Song” (with NU-MYX), in addition of having access to icons, wallpapers and a booklet in PDF format. It’s a superb gift for the fans of the group, but the others are likely to lose themselves in all that, even if they discover a very good group on stage, available for the first time in DVD format. (December 2007)

Warner

Great White - Live and Raw (DVD + CD)

Great White - Live and Raw (DVD + CD) (2007) (2011 Re-issue)

In the late 1980s, while hard rock reached the highest peaks, a band has taken its place among the best rock 'n' roll bands, Great White. Mainly influenced by Led Zeppelin, the Californian group has particularly enjoyed success with its album …Twice Shy in 1989. This DVD presents two full concerts captured in Irvine and Modesto in their state of California. Concerts unfortunately don’t offer the best visual quality, but you can still enjoy an interesting surround sound. Despite the average quality of the recording, the band is at its best during these performances and the guys show us that it’s on stage that they are the most comfortable. As a bonus, there is a CD containing 17 tracks. We can hear 3 of their hits re-recorded ("Rock Me", "Once Bitten, Twice Shy" and "Save Your Love"), 9 newly recorded covers (including "Love Removal Machine" of The Cult and "Sin City" of AC/DC) and 5 covers by Jack Russell, the band’s lead singer (including "Dazed & Confused" of Led Zeppelin, "Same Old Song and Dance" of Aerosmith and "Unchained" of Van Halen). This DVD/CD combo features the best of Great White and will therefore allow beginners to discover them in a great way. (July 2011)

Cleopatra / MVD

½

Green Day - Bullet In A Bible CD Cover Art

Green Day, Bullet In A Bible (DVD + CD) (2005)

With its most recent album, American Idiot, Green Day was able to make us forget Dookie with maybe what will become its best album in career (we will have a better opinion about it after a little more time). One thing is sure, it's that the band was going on tour with great quality material, and you can hear it on Bullet In A Bible, a package of a CD and a DVD. In fact, in my opinion, it's most of all a DVD accompanied by a CD because the DVD is certainly the main part of this package. The images have been caught during 2 concerts in London in a stadium of 60 000 people in the summer of 2005. It was the 2 biggest concerts of the career of the band and there was a lot of energy, on stage and in the crowd. Everybody seemed happy to be there. Proof of the quality (and fame) of their most recent album, the band played many new songs in the first half of the concert and the crowd seemed totally conquered, screaming all the lyrics in case Billie Joe had forgotten them. They were all so efficient those new songs that when the band dove in its repertoire of the 90's, beginning with "Longview", the crowd seemed to have lost a lot of energy. What's better than "Basket Case", their first hit in career, to bring back the atmosphere of the beginning and there will be no more weak moments after that. I was sorry they didn't play some great songs from their repertoire of 10 years ago, but I can understand they don't have the desire to play them as often as they did in the past, or maybe they were just cut in the final mix of the DVD. The intensity of this concert made me think it's probably difficult for a musician to go home alone after all this adrenaline, certainly more efficient than a heroin dose. It can maybe explain the dependence of many musicians to hard drugs, trying to recreate the buzz they had on stage. About the DVD, something that annoyed me at the beginning was the interviews between the songs, which is breaking the rhythm of the concert. But, after a couple of them, it was ok, and they are very interesting anyway. And it gives us the opportunity to catch our breath during the concert which is not a bad thing. The CD will only give you the concert itself. Bullet In A Bible is one of the best concerts on DVD I saw in the last years. A great purchase! (January 2006)

½

Hanoi Rocks - The Nottingham Tapes (DVD)

Hanoi Rocks - The Nottingham Tapes (2008)

Formed in Helsinki, Finland in 1979, Hanoi Rocks was to some extent the hyphen between the New York Dolls and Guns N’ Roses. After having moved to Stockholm then to London, the group finally dissolved in 1985 without having truly obtained success. On the other hand, they left an indelible trace in the history of rock n’ roll music with their interesting mixture of punk and glam rock. Their energetic rock n' roll, particularly on stage, inspired several of their contemporaries. It’s precisely about one of these single performances we can find on this DVD. This is a concert captured on April 23, 1984 at the Palais in Nottingham, England. The band is very well leaded here by a Michael Monroe in great shape. Hanoi Rocks plays 14 tracks for a total duration very close to 1 hour. Through their best songs, we can find covers magnificently reinvented for the occasion including “Up Around The Bend” of CCR, “I Feel Alright” of the Stooges and “Blitzkrieg Bop” of the Ramones. On The Nottingham Tapes, Hanoi Rocks presents a rock performance of first quality, a concert which was concluded in a total disorder whereas the crowd invaded the stage at the time of the last track, “Blitzkrieg Bop”. (September 2008)

Cherry Red / MVD

½

Iggy & The Stooges - Raw Power Live: In the Hands of the Fans (DVD)

Iggy & The Stooges - Raw Power Live: In the Hands of the Fans (2011)

The Stooges have reformed following the death of Ron Asheton in early 2009 with Mike Watt on bass and Steve Mackay on saxophone to accompany the original members James Williamson (guitar), Scott Asheton (drums) and Iggy Pop (vocals). On September 3, 2010, as part of All Tomorrow's Parties Festival, this new band has interpreted the classic album Raw Power in its entirety, a record issued 37 years before. For the occasion, a contest was launched online to select 6 fans that would have the privilege to film that unique performance. These fans were also able to interview their favorite band after the concert. The eight tracks of Raw Power may be presented in a different order than the original album, but they are still very pleasant to hear again on stage with the boundless energy of Iggy Pop who was 63 at that time. After Raw Power, the group played some of its greatest hits, especially from its first two albums that were released over 40 years ago. Here is a nice DVD to show us the legends that represent the Stooges. The concert is also available on CD. (December 2011)

MVD

The Jesus Lizard - Club (DVD)

The Jesus Lizard - Club (2011)

After over 10 years away from the stage, the alternative band from Chicago has decided to reunite in 2009 for a new tour. This DVD presents the first concert of that reunion tour, captured at the Exit in Nashville on July 14, 2009. One can quickly see that David Yow lost nothing of his enthusiasm when he literally attacks the crowd on the first song, "Puss". In the following one, "Seasick", he finds himself just surfing in the middle of the audience, while the cameramen are desperately seeking something interesting to film on stage, without much success. In fact, the unbridled energy of Jesus Lizard comes above all from its singer who is a little crazy. Yet, the trio of musicians is able to offer a flawless performance for an overall great sound quality. The band's fans will undoubtedly be happy to see them on stage in this 74-minute concert. (November 2011)

MVD

The Jesus Lizard - The Jesus Lizard (DVD)

The Jesus Lizard, The Jesus Lizard

Here is a concert captured in Boston in 1994 by one of the noisiest American alternative bands. In the heart of the grunge years, the guys from Chicago played music which was fitting rather well in the movement. Kurt Cobain of Nirvana even named them like one of his influences. What we find here is a completely crazy concert whereas the singer, David Yow gives himself completely, without any reserve. At several times of the concert, we see him surf on the crowd while continuously singing as if it was nothing. The surround sound improves largely a rather poor basic sound. The DVD has the advantage of presenting well the energy emerging from their concerts. In bonus, we can hear 5 tracks recorded at the famous CBGB in New York City in 1992, as well as an interview with Yow before the Boston concert. This is a DVD the fans of the band will primarily like. (August 2007)

MVD

KISS - KISSOLOGY: The Ultimate KISS Collection Vol. 3, 1992-2000 (4 DVD + DVD boni)

KISS - KISSOLOGY: The Ultimate KISS Collection Vol. 3, 1992-2000 (4 DVD + bonus DVD) (2007)

Here is the 3rd box set of the series, covering this time the years 1992-2000. We can see once again different concerts and other previously unreleased footage for a total of almost 10 hours. The strongest moment of this DVD set is certainly the famous unplugged concert at MTV which was only available on CD until then. Will they reach a 4th box set for the years 2000? (February 2009)

568 minutes

KISS - KISSOLOGY: The Ultimate KISS Collection Vol.2, 1978-1991 (3 DVD + DVD boni)

KISS - KISSOLOGY: The Ultimate KISS Collection Vol. 2, 1978-1991 (3 DVD + bonus DVD) (2007)

After a first DVD box set covering the beginnings of the group and, at the same time, their most creative years musically, here is now the follower. These 3 DVDs make it possible to have an overview of the best years of the band in concert, but they also go through the poorest years musically which presented some good hits, but nothing to compare with their classics. One sees the passage of Vinnie Vincent on guitar replacing Ace Frehley. Later, it is Bruce Kulick we can see on stage. One also sees the substitute of Peter Criss on drums, Eric Carr, and what impresses quickly, it is to see at which point he contributed to improve the rhythm section of the band, hitting much stronger than his predecessor. The 3 discs present 2 complete concerts of great quality: one captured in Sydney in Australia in 1980 (which is possibly the best concert I saw from them) and one captured in Detroit in 1990 which makes us discover their greatest hits of the Eighties in addition to their classics. Several other concerts are presented, but only in their strong moments and without repeating once again the classics they have interpreted in each one of their concerts for 30 years. Moreover, we can see various TV appearances, including their first appearance without make-up on MTV. Finally, it includes videos and a rather poor fantastic film from 1979 featuring KISS (KISS In Attack Of The Phantoms). In bonus, there is a 4th DVD presenting a concert captured in Tokyo in 1988. The whole package is once again offered in a splendid box including a detailed booklet. (November 2007)

406 minutes

KISS - Kissology: The Ultimate KISS Collection Vol. 1 - 1974-1977 (DVD)

KISS, KISSOLOGY: The Ultimate KISS Collection Vol. 1, 1974-1977 (2 DVD + bonus DVD) (2006)

This KISS 2-DVD set, with a title letting us guess there will be one or more continuations, constitutes the ultimate work by that legendary band. KISS is well known for exceptional stage performances, in spite of many poor quality albums, with the result that the DVD is the ideal format to emphasize them. On the 2-DVD set offered here, we can find a heap of images (concerts, TV shows, and more) collected between their beginnings in 1974 and 1977. This is their most creative era and the DVDs show us how fast they reached the top. With 4 full concerts, you will have a lot for your money. On the other hand, it's preferable not to look at everything on the same night because with more than 6 hours of material covering a period of only 4 years, there are moments that can seem repetitive from one concert to another (for example, you will hear "Firehouse" in each concert with always the same setting). On another side, you will always be impressed by the energy of the group on stage, an energy making each of their concerts entertaining. As bonus, you will hear another full concert, this one captured on December 20, 1977 in Largo, Maryland. At the end, even if this is a DVD set that will offer you several video evenings, you will wait eagerly for volume 2 and followers. (April 2007)

Laibach - Volk: Dead in Trbovlje (DVD)

Laibach - Volk: Dead in Trbovlje (2008)

Laibach is a collective of musicians formed in Slovenia almost 30 years ago. They offer us an industrial sound, sometimes atmospheric and sometimes energetic, entirely based on percussions, synthetizers and voices. They present us here a concert captured in March 2007 during the Volk album tour which presented songs based on or inspired by national anthems. The first half is primarily atmospheric whereas they offer us 13 of these 14 national anthems. After that hour in which several pieces will probably succeed in making you annoyed, or even asleep, the second half, much more dynamic, is very welcome. These 6 tracks will give you a good outline of the origin of bands like KMFDM and Rammstein which were able to add guitars to the genre. In spite of good moments, these tracks aren’t able to awake the crowd and to bring back an atmosphere a little more festive in this concert which, in end of line, is only for their biggest fans. The concert ends in a prerecorded medley of almost ten minutes during which the musicians salute the crowd before leaving, and we’re left in front of the credits. The DVD offers in addition ten videos of the tracks presented in the first part of the concert, plus “Vaticanae” which we cannot hear on stage. (January 2009)

Mute / EMI

Avril Lavigne - The Best Damn Tour: Live In Toronto (DVD)

Avril Lavigne - The Best Damn Tour: Live In Toronto (2008)

After having presented us her best album to date in 2007, The Best Damn Thing, Avril Lavigne left for a world tour with a particularly well constructed concert. The Toronto concert was captured and it’s now offered to us on DVD. We can see an Avril Lavigne all smiling which seems particularly happy to sing at home, in Ontario, with her mother and her grandmother in the audience. At the opening track, the mega hit “Girlfriend”, Avril doesn’t seem very comfortable to have to be integrated into the choreography of her dancers. Fortunately, she won’t have to dance much for the rest of the show. During her performances, Avril has sometimes a nonchalant attitude. She then seems annoyed and thinking about something else. Also, she’s not the most energetic one on stage, but she sings perfectly. During the rock n’ roll tracks, she lets herself go a little crazier (“I Always Get What I Want”, “Everything Back But You”). On various occasions throughout the concert, it’s pleasant to see her play different instruments, even if she’s certainly not the best musician. She plays electric guitar in “My Happy Ending” and “He Wasn't”, acoustic guitar in “Don't Tell Me”, piano in “When You're Gone” and she even offers a short jam on drums. Pauses in the show to give her the time to change clothes are filled by a dance session and a video presenting various images of the young singer on the sound of her version of Joan Jett’s “Bad Reputation”. At the finale, Avril sings the remix of “Girlfriend”, as well as one of the greatest hits from her first album, “Sk8er Boi”. The concert lasts only one hour and 15 minutes, but it’s intense and perfectly put together. The DVD unfortunately doesn’t contain any bonus features, but the image and sound quality of the concert is amply sufficient to make a DVD of great quality. (December 2008)

RCA / Sony BMG

½

Limp Bizkit - Rock im Park 2001 (DVD)

Limp Bizkit - Rock im Park 2001 (2008)

Before the guitarist Wes Borland leaves the group in 2001, Limp Bizkit made a mega stadium tour. This is one of these concerts, a show captured in Germany on June 1, 2001 and which we can find here on DVD. The concert can be viewed in its original version as presented on television (1 hour and 26 minutes), or in a remixed version of 1 hour and 14 minutes. The images, even in full screen format, are of great quality. For the sound, you have the choice between stereo or surround. The only problem, it’s that there is a delay of approximately 1 second between the sound and the image in the surround sound version, which can be particularly frustrating. The other aggravating detail, but that one is not a big surprise, is the attitude of Fred Durst. He is straightforwardly unpleasant with the German crowd insulting them even because they don’t understand or speak English. During “The One”, he brings a girl on stage to dance and at the end he says that it was awful and that she ruined the song… But, that belonged to the character and we should not be shocked about that. Besides these various details, it’s a good performance on stage and all their hits are played, at a moment or the other of the concert. In bonus, we can see a 8-minute interview with DJ Lethal. We also find a booklet with the biography and the complete discography of the band. (July 2008)

Charly / MVD

Living Colour - The Paris Concert (DVD)

Living Colour - The Paris Concert (2008)

Living Colour was at the New Morning club in Paris in July 2007 for a performance in which we could hear all their hits. Nearly 20 years after their impressive debut, these legitimate sons of Jimi Hendrix prove that they didn’t lose anything of their energy, but especially of their virtuosity. With several songs passably stretched in solos of guitar, bass or drums, the New Yorkers don’t hesitate at all to spread out all their talent. The concert starts strongly with the excellent “Type”, one of their greatest hits in career, in which they insert an extract of “Police and Thieves” of The Clash. They also play “Sacred Ground” and “Glamour Boys”, in addition to covers like the R&B classic “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” and “Crosstown Traffic” of Hendrix (the strongest moment of the DVD), before closing the whole on 2 other great hits: “Love Rears Its Ugly Head” and “Cult of Personality”. The moments a little less spectacular will hypnotize you as much, with the result that in end of line we find very few weak moments in this 107 minutes exceptional concert when the group is at its best and connects the 17 tracks without any presentation. Since the concert was filmed in high-definition, the DVD, which also offers a surround sound, gives you a quality which won’t break your pleasure in no case. A must have for the fans of the group! (April 2009)

In-Akustik / MVD

½

Madonna - The Confessions Tour (DVD + CD)

Madonna, The Confessions Tour (DVD + CD) (2007)

One of the tours with the most revenues in 2006 is now available on DVD, The Confessions Tour by Madonna. We can see a complete 2-hour concert live from London, England. This is an uncensored version because it includes "Live to Tell" showing Madonna crucified with a crown of thorns, footage that was cut for the TV version. We can hear many tracks from her excellent latest album Confessions on a Dance Floor, with 2 different versions of her hit "Sorry". But classics were not forgotten because we can hear "Like a Virgin", "Ray of Light", "Erotica", "La Isla Bonita", "Lucky Star" and a steroid version of "Music" entitled here "Music Inferno", one of the good moments of the show. We have to say there are many great moments on that concert because Madonna is better than ever. She is like a good wine and she becomes better and better with the years. It’s even very impressive to see her go on stage with an incredible energy all along the 2 hours. We sometimes have the feeling that it is her dancers that have to take breaks to be able to continue to follow the beat for the entire concert. Among the other good moments of the show, we have to mention "Jump", "Sorry" (in its original version), "I Love New York" and "Hung Up" concluding the show in a mega party. We can definitely admit that the queen of pop music reigns more than ever and that every other "little" singer of the same genre will have to work much more to reach this level of excellence. The only thing I disliked about this concert is that they forgot some classics like "Material Girl", "Holiday" and "Hollywood" that could have replaced without any problem some of the songs offered (or could have been added to the concert). As bonus, the DVD offers tour rehearsal footage and exclusive photo gallery. The CD accompanying DVD is only a shorter version of the concert with 13 of the best tracks, but without "Ray of Light" and "La Isla Bonita". The Confessions Tour DVD will certainly figure among the best DVDs of the year. (March 2007)

½

Jonah Matranga - There's A Lot In Here (DVD + CD)

Jonah Matranga, There's A Lot In Here (DVD + CD) (2006)

Jonah Sonz Matranga was a member of the alternative/metal band Far in the 90’s which released 2 albums and did non-stop touring. The Californian originally from Massachussetts Matranga works now in solo and he gives many concerts in his region where he has now a good base of fans. What is offered here is a DVD including 3 things: a concert in an Anaheim venue, an intimate concert in a living room in Southern California and many videos creating a movie, The Volunteers. For the Anaheim concert, we can first hear Matranga by himself with his guitar and a beat box. He doesn’t hesitate to stop his performance to make comments on the crowd or to talk to someone in particular, but he always comes back greatly to the emotion of his song. A few songs later, his musicians join him to make it a bit heavier. For the intimate concert in a living room, we can discover the real talent of Matranga when he’s alone with his guitar (and once again a beat box with a couple of pre-recorded samples). He reminded me of Billy Bragg in some moments in his way to communicate the emotion of a song with only his voice and an electric guitar. The CD also included here contains the best moments of the DVD selected by Matranga himself, from the Anaheim concert and the intimate concert. It includes 12 tracks for a total of 55 minutes (there are 32 on the DVD including the 11 videos). If you like songwriters with a garage sound, this DVD will please you totally with great compositions. (May 2006)

Equal Vision

John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers - Live At Iowa State University (DVD)

John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers - Live At Iowa State University (2008)

John Mayall is acknowledged as the father of British blues and he has discovered some of the most acclaimed musicians of the last 40 years, including guitarists Eric Clapton, Peter Green and Mick Taylor. In 1984, Mayall came back with a new incarnation of the Bluesbreakers featuring Coco Montoya and Walter Trout on guitar. It’s a concert from that time which is presented here on DVD, a concert recorded in 1987 at Iowa State University. The near 50-minute concert presents a blues performance worthy of John Mayall. We can appreciate his versatility (keyboards, harmonica, guitar, and so on) in addition to noting all the dexterity and pure talent of his guitarists, particularly Trout which is letting himself go lose and plays rather impressive solos. It’s only unfortunate that the sound doesn’t give justice to that single performance. The only interesting element of the bonus features is a short 49-second backstage interview with Mayall… (December 2008)

Quantum Leap / MVD

½

The Michael Schenker Group - The 30th Anniversary Concert Live in Tokyo (DVD)

The Michael Schenker Group - The 30th Anniversary Concert Live in Tokyo (2010)

German guitarist Michael Schenker (brother of Rudolph of Scorpions) had a career since the early 1970s when he was part of the early Scorpions before joining UFO. But it was in the 1980s that he was finally able to express himself totally in the Michael Schenker Group (MSG). This concert captured on January 13, 2010 in Tokyo, Japan marks the 30th anniversary of the band. At the same time, we find back original singer Gary Barden and the drummer who was invited for their first album, Simon Phillips. They are accompanied by Wayne Findlay (guitar and keyboards) and the legendary Neil Murray (bass). The group offers 18 tracks totalling 1 hour and 45 minutes, all filmed in high definition and recorded with a superb surround sound. You can hear all the great classics of the band, as they concentrate especially on their first 2 albums in 1980 and 1981 (2 musts) and their most recent album of 2008, the very strong In the Midst of Beauty. One can even hear 2 classic UFO songs "Rock Bottom" and "Doctor, Doctor". The DVD offers bonuses: the rehearsals in Los Angeles and their feeling behind the scenes on the evening of the concert. The show is also available as audio on a double CD. Even if Michael Schenker has made numerous live recordings over the years, the performance of the 30th anniversary is by far the most interesting, because not only the band was in great shape, but he could also count on a quality production. (March 2011)

In-Akustik / MVD

Bob Mould - Circle Of Friends (DVD)

Bob Mould - Circle Of Friends (2007)

Captured at 9:30 Club in Washington, D.C. on October 7, 2005, this concert by Bob Mould was released on DVD exactly 2 years later. For his first concert to be offered on DVD, he is surrounded by keyboardist Richard Morel (Morel), bass player Jason Narducy (Rockets Over Sweden, Verbow) and drummer Brendan Canty (Fugazi). Chemistry settles greatly between the 4 musicians and Mould benefits from it to offer us the best of his entire career. He indeed draws in the material by Hüsker Dü and Sugar including his whole solo career until Body Of Song, his latest album (at the time of the concert). Mould is not very talkative but he’s full of energy and he connects 23 tracks during more than 90 minutes. Lightings can seem sometimes aggravating, but anyway the entire place is left for the music in this excellent concert which will charm his fans from the beginning. A 10-minute documentary begins the DVD and makes some kind of an introduction to the musicians. (February 2008)

MVD

½

Muse - Haarp (DVD + CD)

Muse - Haarp (DVD + CD) (2008)

After the excellent album Black Holes And Revelations, the following Muse tour could only be huge. It’s what we note here thanks to the capture of two concerts at the Wembley Stadium in London on June 16 and 17, 2007. We can see here the trio truly at the top of its career during a concert of 1:40 obviously making a good review of their last album, but also going to draw in their previous recordings. Through its best compositions, the group proposes to us as many experimentation and single arrangements as they could do on record in the past. It’s in fact one of the first things impressing on the DVD, because they succeed in offering live sound arrangements as effective as if it has been done in a studio. Many artists would even have problems to reproduce in studio the guitar and electronic sounds that Muse presents on stage. The surround sound mix of great quality emphasizes also well all these unique sounds of Muse. The DVD also offers an exceptional image quality in widescreen format with a particular texture clearly highlighting the lightings and stage set. In fact, Haarp is a DVD of the last generation with all the qualities necessary so that we can as much appreciate the group in the comfort of our living room that if we could have been present on the spot, in the middle of the crowd. In spite of the lack of interesting bonus contents, this DVD is a great gift for the many fans of the group. The CD presents an audio summary of the DVD and its exceptional sound quality makes it also interesting, if you don’t have a DVD player around. (May 2008)

A&E / Warner

½

New York Dolls - Lookin' Fine on Television (DVD)

New York Dolls - Lookin' Fine on Television (2011)

The New York punks broke barriers in the early 1970s with their outlandish outfits and decadent music. On the DVD Lookin' Fine on Television, they are presented in their best years with rare live music clips, and interviews. The live clips are often footage from early shows in New York City, but also from TV studios, clubs and even swimming pools of Los Angeles. The 70-minute film may seem somewhat visually stunning on different occasions, because for the same song you can see images from various concerts and any other images taken in the street, and so on. Everything is in black and white and it is perhaps where the colored image of the New York Dolls is the least well represented. Still, the DVD manages to show an excellent portrait of this group that has influenced generations of musicians. As a bonus, you can see a very rare interview with David Johansen and Johnny Thunders from 1976. (January 2012)

MVD

½

Nirvana - Unplugged In New York

Nirvana - Unplugged In New York (2007)

The famous acoustic concert of November 1993, which appeared on CD in 1994, had never been released in video. Here is finally this excellent performance of Nirvana on DVD, in its entirety, and with a 5.1 surround sound. The sound is in fact almost perfect and allows us to rediscover greatly the quality of the songs interpreted in acoustic version. We can hear 3 additional tracks compared to the original version aired on MTV: “Something In The Way”, “Oh, Me” (with Meat Puppets) and a short improvisation of “Sweet Home Alabama” of Lynyrd Skynyrd. We can also hear various comments by the musicians between the songs. In bonus, we can also see the MTV final version, in addition to a short documentary on the production of this TV special and 5 tracks played in rehearsal. Among these tracks, it’s particularly interesting to see the massacre of “Pennyroyal Tea” which Kurt Cobain finally decided to play by himself during the concert, doing of it one of the greatest moments of the evening. Unplugged In New York became truly a collector's item following the death of Cobain a few months later, whereas it remains one of the best filmed concerts of Nirvana. A must have! (March 2008)

Ozzy Osbourne - Live and Loud DVD

Ozzy Osbourne, Live & Loud (1993)

It’s true it was released many years ago, but I only knew the CD version until now. But after having seen the DVD, I didn’t have any choice writing something about it. Live & Loud was issued first in 1993 in a very primitive version of the DVD, because the 112 minutes presented here, without any menu or extra, were impossible to fit on one DVD only and they did a double face DVD to contain all the stuff. The DVD was captured during the No More Tears tour and we can see images from 3 concerts perfectly arranged which is making almost a movie instead of a simple concert DVD. That tour was announced like his farewell tour which is always adding a particularly captivating element. The advantage of this DVD in opposition to the other different Ozzy DVDs is that we can see him in a great shape, like his 3 musicians also. The track listing of 18 songs is totally impressing with no weakness. In bonus, we even have the opportunity to see the 4 original members of Black Sabbath playing one song ("Black Sabbath" in fact). The energy is flowing all along the DVD, the crowd is very active and it’s hard to leave our TV screen being afraid to miss something great. This is certainly one of the best live DVDs I’ve ever seen. By seeing and hearing Live & Loud, we realize there is not much metal bands to eclipse Ozzy, which is able to control the crowd when he wants to. With Black Sabbath, he was the creator of that genre 35 years ago and he’s still the leader of it, no matter what we can say about him. (February 2006)

½

Pallas - Moment To Moment (DVD)

Pallas - Moment To Moment (2008)

The neo-progressive British movement of the early 80’s, dominated by Marillion, also counts the Scottish of Pallas. Even if the band produced only a few albums in almost 25 years, they succeeded in creating a legion of extremely faithful fans. We find them here in a 90-minute concert captured in Katowice, Poland on October 31, 2007. They interpret their 12 best compositions in a good performance, accompanied by splendid lightings. The mixing in 5.1 surround sound makes the whole even more interesting, for the greatest pleasure of their fans. On my side, not knowing them very well, I couldn’t really let myself hang by their music. Also, the group is not necessarily the most dynamic on stage. Despite everything, it’s about an effective and well produced DVD. In bonus, we can find a documentary on tour, rehearsals, an interview with Graeme Murray and Alan Reed, and even more. (August 2008)

Metal Mind / MVD

½

Poison - Seven Days Live

Poison - Seven Days Live (2006)

On April 23, 1993 was captured a concert in Hammersmith Apollo Theater in London by the hard rock group Poison, and it’s what we can see here during 82 minutes. 15 tracks are offered obviously presenting all their greatest hits from 1986 to 1990. Unfortunately, this is a concert from the Native Tongue tour with Richie Kotzen replacing C.C. DeVille on guitar, with the result that there are several tracks from that rather poor album. On the other hand, the 4 guys remain at the top of their reputation of great performers. Firmly supported by very good images and a surround sound, the band gives us a lot for our money, and gives good memories to its hardcore fans, 20 years after the release of its first album. (November 2007)

82 minutes

Cherry Red / MVD

½

Iggy Pop - Live At The Avenue B DVD

Iggy Pop, Live At The Avenue B (2005)

Here is a concert of Iggy Pop captured in Bruxelles, Belgium in 1999. He appears on stage with his good friends of The Trolls to present the greatest hits of his 30 years career, in solo and with the Stooges. We can see a Iggy still in a very great shape despite his 52 years of age at the time (he is now 58!). He has nude chest like always and doesn’t’ have any fat. He is totally unchained on stage and he dives into the crowd like if he was still in his 20s and never used any drugs or alcohol in his life. And all that without ruining the quality of his voice! The only clue he gives us about some kind of maturity is we don’t see his butt, but that is not really something we miss. He plays a lot with the crowd, sometimes too much for the security guys. The one we call the godfather of punk seems simply possessed when he goes on stage and this concert will keep you on your feet until the end. The DVD contains only the 88 minute concert without any extras, but what a concert! Iggy Pop is an example to take for many young punks who don’t really know what to do on stage. (October 2005)

½

Ana Popovic Band - An Evening at Trasimeno Lake (DVD)

Ana Popovic Band - An Evening at Trasimeno Lake (2010)

For fans of blues rock, guitarist from Serbia Ana Popovic is a must. This DVD is featuring a concert captured on an enchanting site from the heart of Italy. For 1 hour and 13 minutes, you can discover all the virtuosity of this guitarist whom many regard as one of the bests in Europe. During this show, she offers 14 tracks including many great guitar solos. As a bonus, you can hear 2 acoustic songs recorded on the afternoon of the concert, and a 7-minute interview. Breathtaking images, coupled with surround sound quality make this DVD a must for her fans and an excellent document to discover her for those who are not already familiar with Popovic. (May 2011)

ArtisteXclusive / MVD

½

Queen - Rock Montreal

Queen - Rock Montreal (2007)

At the end of 1981, after several huge events, it was planned to make a film of the Queen concert. On November 24 and 25, 1981, they thus filmed the 2 concerts in front of crowds of 18.000 people in the late Forum of Montreal to make of them a film in 35 mm cinema format. The band was then at the top of its career and it’s a raw and rock concert they offered to their fans, whereas the keyboards had not made yet their appearance in the music of the group. All their greatest hits so far were obviously included (“We Will Rock You”, “Somebody To Love”, “Under Pressure”, “Bohemian Rhapsody”, “We Are The Champions”, and so on) and we can hear those in alternation with a little less known tracks which were not necessarily going to reappear very often in their concerts thereafter (“Dragon Attack”, “Get Down Make Love”, “Let Me Entertain You”, and so on). This concert can be compared advantageously with the one we can find on the excellent DVD Live At Wembley Stadium, captured in 1986 and issued in 2003. On the other hand, we hear obviously less hits of the Eighties, and it gives almost the feeling of an intimate show in comparison with the 60.000 hysterical people present at the Wembley Stadium. The quality of the image in panoramic format is excellent and the surround sound is quite simply irreproachable. This is thus one of the good live DVDs by Queen to have been released, a document to be discovered… Various editions of the DVD are available, of which an edition with a bonus DVD including their performance at Live Aid. (April 2008)

½

The Queers - The Queers Are Here DVD

The Queers, The Queers Are Here (2007)

After a 20-year career, time had come for The Queers to present us a DVD. The punk rock band, disciple of the Ramones, never really had success, remaining apart of the musical industry. But, according to Joe Queer, it’s perfect like that. When we hear him talk about the current punk rock bands on the DVD, we understand he doesn’t want to be associated at all with those "fucking bands". The DVD of a little more than one hour offers primarily concert footage filmed between 1993 and 2005. We can also see videos for the songs "Don’t Back Down", "Tamara is a Punk" and "Punk Rock Girls" as well as an animated video for "I Can’t Get Over You", all separated with interviews with Joe Queer, singer, guitarist and leader of the band. A 5.1 audio version is offered, but the poor sound quality of the concert footage is very little improved by the surround sound. Like there were many changes of musicians around Joe during those years, the personnel constantly varies throughout the DVD. The Queers Are Here, in spite of its imperfections and the fact that it is incomplete, offers us a good overview of the best songs of the band and allows us to discover them a little more. (March 2007)

MVD

Ja Rule - 2005 (2 DVD)

Ja Rule - 2005 (2008)

In 2005, the rapper Ja Rule was touring the world. Two of these concerts were captured and mixed to be presented here on DVD. They are concerts which took place in March in Germany and Belgium. We thus see on this DVD a mix of the 2 performances for duration of almost one hour. 5.1 surround sound is of first quality, but it’s the visual which is the most impressive whereas several images are placed on top of each other, including even sometimes extracts of videos. The main disadvantage of the concert is that no guest artist can be seen and all the feminine voices come from the studio recordings. On the other hand, they mainly fill this problem in the performances we can see as bonuses, recorded in Manchester, whereas we can see mainly Ashanti for 2 tracks including the mega hit “Always On Time”. Several other bonus features are available, which requires the presence of a second DVD to contain it all. On the other hand, except for certain interviews, there are much useless contents which are addressed to the hardcore fans exclusively. As a whole, this DVD of Ja Rule does what we could be waiting and is a nice gift for his many fans. (October 2008)

Charly / MVD

Rush - R30: 30th Anniversary Deluxe Edition (2 DVD + 2 CD)

Rush, R30 (30th Anniversary Deluxe Edition) (2 DVD + 2 CD) (2005)

In 2004, the Canadian band Rush was on tour for its 30 years, all around the world. So, they present here one of these concerts, in Frankfurt, Germany. Considered at their beginning like the first metal Canadian band, even if they were more in the progressive rock style, Rush gives us here most of the best songs of their career. In this 2 hour performance, you will be able to see how in a good shape are the guys. You have to be in a great shape when you do this kind of rich music with only 3 musicians… But, it helps when the 3 members of the band are true virtuosos on their respective instruments. They are particularly impressive to see play, which is making it a concert pleasant to look at and to listen to, even if there are no particular special effects. The huge talent of the musicians makes all the work. The 2nd DVD presents 5 very interesting interviews recorded between 1979 and 2002, as well as many never seen videos and songs in concert. This deluxe version comes with 2 CDs in bonus including the entire concert of the DVD. Everything is offered in a beautiful box including a sticker and 2 guitar picks autographed by Alex Lifeson and Geddy Lee. The only things I think are missing in this beautiful collection object are the lack of biographic notes in the booklet, and the absence of details on the tracks offered. We can also complain about the fact they didn’t play one song or the other, but the band’s repertoire is so huge it’s impossible to please everybody in a unique concert. Instead of buying this deluxe version, you can also buy the regular version with only 2 DVDs, which can be perfectly suitable for you. In one case or the other, this is a great anthology of our best Canadian band. (September 2006)

Eric Sardinas and Big Motor - Live (DVD)

Eric Sardinas and Big Motor - Live (2010)

This 45-minute DVD presents a television show broadcasted on MAV. It alternates stage performances by Eric Sardinas and his band, Big Motor, and interview tips. In these interviews, blues rocker talks about his first guitar, his favourite guitar of all time, the "Resonator", his influences, and so on. During the live performances, one can discover his talent on slide guitar, accompanied by his solid rhythm section of Big Motor. As the show was produced for television, breaks indicative of MAV are rather disturbing, and alternating between interviews and performances is not ideal either. But, it will give you the opportunity to discover the talent of this extreme bluesman, one of the bests of his generation. (March 2011)

MVD

We Are Scissor Sisters And So Are You Cover Art

Scissor Sisters, We are Scissor Sisters... And So Are You (2005)

Here is a DVD by one of the most creative bands to have make a breakthrough in 2004 with their excellent first album, a self-titled one. The Scissor Sisters are a band from New York City offering a pop sound most of all light and perfect to dance with influences of the 70’s like Elton John and David Bowie. We know them most of all for their disco version, very Bee Gees style, of "Comfortably Numb" of Pink Floyd. Their most important asset: to take elements of the past to build a unique, personal and very modern sound. On this DVD, we can see all the flamboyance of the band in a 80 minute concert in which they offer us as much for our eyes than for our ears. They are definitely real stage animals and they started in fact in the New York club circuit well before releasing their first album. If you liked them with their first record, you will be totally seduced after the viewing of this concert, bringing a new dimension to the band. In addition to the concert, you will see a half-hour documentary, as well as 5 videos ("Comfortably Numb", "Take Your Mama", "Mary" and 2 versions of "Laura"). Despite a booklet with no information at all, it’s a DVD that will give you a lot for your money! (April 2005)

½

John Scofield - New Morning: The Paris Concert (DVD)

John Scofield - New Morning: The Paris Concert (2010)

John Scofield is considered one of the most important and influential jazz guitarists and composers since his debut in the mid-1970s. A great improviser, he revisits today compositions of post-bop, funk-jazz and R&B. This DVD offers a superb concert by this master of jazz guitar captured at the New Morning in Paris in 2010. He is accompanied on stage by drummer Bill Stewart, bassist Ben Street and pianist Michael Eckroth. This DVD is part of a series dedicated to the spiritual sons of Miles Davis, with whom Scofield moreover played and recorded for nearly 4 years in the 1980s. Even if the concert is very simple in itself, the production is excellent with a high definition picture and surround sound. The 2-hour concert with only 12 pieces may seem a little long to the uninitiated, but perfectly please his fans and all the lovers of bop and free jazz. (April 2011)

In-Akustik / MVD

½

Sex Pistols - There’ll Always Be An England: Live From Brixton Academy (DVD)

Sex Pistols - There’ll Always Be An England: Live From Brixton Academy (2008)

To celebrate the 30th birthday of Never Mind The Bollocks, Here’s The Sex Pistols, the 4 original members of the Sex Pistols performed for 5 nights sold out at Brixton Academy in November 2007. It’s one of these concerts we can visualize here in its entirety, in high definition and with a 5.1 surround sound. The montage succeeds in collecting perfectly the crowd’s energy and Johnny Rotten’s madness (we have to call him now by his real name, John Lydon). Even if we have practically the feeling to look at a concert by John Lydon and his musicians, it remains that the band offers a solid performance on stage during 77 minutes (the time to play about their entire repertoire plus covers). The only problem is that the scale of the concert and the images a little too polished doesn’t fit very well with the underground punk movement they founded in England. The age of the musicians also removes even more credibility with their anarchist message. Right at Lydon’s entry on stage, we have the feeling he just entered the skin of his character of young 1977 punk rocker. This is anyway a good concert which will make it possible for younger people to discover them on stage, but this type of performance cannot be compared with the atmosphere there was at the time in the small dirty venues they used to make disorder more often than any other bands in the genre. In bonus, we can view the documentary The Knowledge which presents a guide to London by the Sex Pistols. With more than 90 minutes of duration, it includes backstage footage of the Brixton concerts and other rare footage. (January 2009)

Fremantle / Rhino / Warner

½

Shakira - Oral Fixation Tour (DVD)

Shakira - Oral Fixation Tour (2007)

The last concert of her Oral Fixation tour in Miami in fall 2006 was captured and this is what we find here on DVD. It’s a 1 hour and a half concert Shakira’s offering to us with a perfect mix of genres and a lot of dancing. Very comfortable on stage, this short woman succeeds wonderfully in covering all the space under her bare feet. She manages to seduce her audience as soon as at the first track, “Estoy Aqui”, and it will be the case until the end, even if she travels between Latin pop, rock, Arab beats and ballads. Always very sexy, she uses brilliantly her moves to her advantage. It’s necessary to note the presence of 2 distinguished guests, the voices behind her greatest hits from the albums Oral Fixation vol. 1 and 2: Alejandro Sanz on “Tortura” and Wyclef Jean on the mega hit “Hips Don't Lie”, ending the show. The concert is largely emphasized by an exceptional image quality. For the voice, we can suppose that a recording assists her on certain occasions, because her voice remains always perfect in spite of the numerous movements of dance. If it’s not the case, she’s definitely in an exceptional physical shape! The DVD adds to the concert 2 tracks captured on other concerts of the tour (“Obtener Un Si” and “La Pared”), as well as a video for “Las De La Intuicion”. We can also view 2 short documentaries on her 397 days on tour and her charity activities in her native Colombia. Finally, a not very useful CD is offered with 6 songs from the concert. (October 2008)

Epic / Sony BMG

Shakira - Live & Off The Record (DVD + CD)

Shakira, Live & Off The Record (DVD + CD) (2004)

Shakira had a huge success with her 2001 album Laundry Service, most particularly with the mega hit "Whenever, Wherever". On this DVD, we can see a concert from the tour that followed this album in Rotterdam, Netherlands. We can see Shakira in complete control of the crowd and it’s always surprising to see a so small woman filling a so big stage. The Colombian pop rocker seduces totally the audience with her inventive way to dance on a mix of rock, pop, Arab beats and of course, Latin music. I was in fact surprised by her rock side that is very important on stage with 2 guitarists. She even plays the classic by AC/DC "Back In Black" in a great way. She surprises us once again when she appears on drums at the beginning of "Rules". Nothing really impressing, but she proves she touches really to everything (lyricist, composer, singer, musician, arranger, producer... and an excellent show girl). In "Octavo Dia", she takes position on politics, and immediately after, in "Ready For The Good Times", she pleases herself in becoming a pop singer of the 80’s. The 1 hour and a half concert ends with her 2 biggest hits, "Objection (Tango)" and "Whenever, Wherever", with numerous explosions and confettis to conclude this imposing concert. There are in fact a couple of songs that left me totally uninterested, but it’s a concert of first quality that is offered here. The DVD also includes a very good documentary of 60 minutes, moving in some moments, in which we discover her a little bit more, for our own pleasure. In addition to the DVD, we also have a CD containing 10 songs from the concert on the DVD. We would have maybe appreciate to have a little more detailed booklet, but because Shakira is filling totally our eyes with this DVD of 150 minutes, we wouldn’t have the time to read the booklet anyway... (June 2006)

Cat Stevens - Tea For The Tillerman Live (DVD)

Cat Stevens - Tea For The Tillerman Live (2008)

On June 8, 1971, whereas he was at the climax of his career, Cat Stevens offered a unique performance in KCET studios in Los Angeles. This intimate concert is presented to us for the first time on DVD. We can hear 8 songs including the hits “Moonshadow” and “Wild World”. This rare performance is more than interesting to discover this incomparable folk singer who had a great career until 1978. Unfortunately, with a total of only 30 minutes, the concert will seem too short to you, even if we also find in bonus a 5-minute animated film entitled Teaser And The Firecat. (February 2009)

Wienerworld / MVD

½

Iggy & The Stooges - Escaped Maniacs (2 DVD)

Iggy & The Stooges - Escaped Maniacs (2 DVD) (2008)

Two years after getting back together to record some tracks for the Iggy Pop album, Skull Ring, The Stooges gave a solid performance at the Lokerse festival in Belgium on August 6, 2005. It’s this 65-minute concert we find here in 2 versions. Most of the songs of their 2 first albums are interpreted here, in addition to 2 titles drawn from Skull Ring, “Dead Rock Star” and the title-song. Unfortunately, we cannot hear anything from the classic Raw Power, which thus becomes automatically the weakest point of this excellent DVD. Iggy is completely unchained here, like always, and he’s firmly supported by the music of the Asheton brothers and Mike Watt (Minutemen). But pay attention that the 2 DVDs offer us much more than a simple concert! The 2nd disc enables us to discover an excellent 60-minute retrospective of the last 30 years. We can also see in bonus very good interviews with Ron & Scott Asheton, Iggy Pop and Esther Friedman. On the whole, it’s thus more than 5 hours and a half of material which is offered to us, everything necessary to satisfy the most demanding fans. On January 6, we were shocked to hear the news of Ron Asheton’s death. He will always be remembered by everyone. (February 2009)

Charly / MVD

Stryper - Greatest Hits: Live In Puerto Rico DVD

Stryper, Greatest Hits: Live In Puerto Rico (2007)

The Christian hard rock band Stryper, which especially had success in the mid Eighties, is still indeed active. The proof: this DVD recorded in March 2004 in Puerto Rico. We can hear obviously their greatest hits (like the title says) recorded in front of a rather young crowd which probably discovered the group via their parents. What strikes from the very start, it’s the great shape of the 4 guys whereas they don’t have anything of the fat guys in lycra we can see in several other groups of the same era which are still active. On the contrary, they look better than in their good years whereas the big hair and make-up were the standard. We can realize it better in the bonus concert footage from 1989. These tracks complete perfectly the "greatest hits" aspect of the DVD because we can hear the other hits they had that are not included in the 2004 concert. The most important negative point of the main concert is that we discover quickly how most of their songs didn’t grow very well. At the time, they seemed to have a corrosive side in spite of the recurring topic of the religion, but 20 years later, they only seem musically poor. There are about only the songs drawn from To Hell With The Devil, their best album, that still have an interesting life ("The Way", "Honestly", the title-song, and more). At the end, it’s nevertheless a good show, a concert which will recall memories to many people who lived that period. Moreover, you have the choice between a stereo and a 5.1 surround sound. (May 2007)

MVD

Johnny Thunders - Who’s Been Talking?

Johnny Thunders - Who’s Been Talking? (2007)

This former member of the New York Dolls and the Heartbreakers continued his career of rock n' roll star until his death on April 23, 1991, in spite of his dependence to hard drugs. This DVD contains one of the last concerts offered by Thunders whereas it was captured at the time of a mini-tour in Japan on April 3, 1991, 20 days before being found dead at his home in New Orleans. We can see a guy in great shape on stage whereas he reminds us more than ever his idol, Keith Richards. He offers nothing less than 22 tracks including 2 medleys: “Hit The Road Jack/I'm Not Your Stepping Stone” and “Louie Louie/Hang On Sloopy”. Among the songs played, we can hear some from the New York Dolls era for our greater pleasure, of which the excellent “Personality Crisis”. The main problem in this concert of more than one hour is the poor quality of the image, recovered from the analogical recording of the time. On the other hand, the sound remixed in 5.1 is excellent. For the atmosphere at the venue and the interaction with the crowd of Citta Club in Osaka, forget that because practically any crowd noise was deleted in the final mix. It’s almost embarrassing when the moment of the encore comes, but it’s understood that the DVD doesn’t reflect truly the atmosphere on the spot at that time. In spite of its defects, Who's Been Talking? is a very beautiful document for the fans of Johnny Thunders. We can see in bonus a very detailed written biography of his career. (March 2008)

Secret / MVD

½

U.K. Subs - Warhead: The 25th Anniversary Concert DVD

U.K. Subs, Warhead: 25th Anniversary Marquee Concert (2006)

In London on October 24, 2002, the British punk band U.K. Subs was celebrating its 25th anniversary at the famous Marquee. It's that historical concert we can see here in a very good performance of 68 minutes. The concert started a little slowly with a few weaker tracks, but after that, the fast beat took the stage. We can find 21 tracks including the classics "New York State Police", "Tomorrow's Girls" and "Down On The Farm". Even if in my opinion the U.K. Subs didn't record many good albums, it's particularly interesting to rediscover them 25 years later. And the concert is presented with the big lighting and sound, which is making it maybe one of the biggest shows they did in their entire career. The DVD also contains a very good interview for a big total of more than 2 hours of material. With the surround sound 5.1 in bonus, this is definitely an excellent DVD that is offered to us, a DVD that will remind good memories for the oldest ones and will make the youngest ones discover another real punk band of the British wave of the late 70's. (November 2006)

MVD

½

The Used - Berth (DVD + CD)

The Used, Berth (DVD + CD) (2007)

The pop punk emo band The Used once again presents a CD/DVD package before issuing a new album, as they had done between their 2 first discs. This one thus becomes somewhat superfluous for those who would have got Maybe Memories. The DVD includes a full concert of more than one hour captured in Vancouver on September 25, 2005. The group presents a beautiful energy on stage in spite of several poor songs and of too long pauses between some of them. The crowd strongly contributes to insufflate energy to this concert. The DVD also includes a completely useless 37-minute documentary about their life on tour, a documentary in which nothing’s really happening in fact. The only interesting thing that we find is a new song at the end of it, "Handsome Awkward", a track which will be included on their forthcoming album that will be released in April. As bonus, we can see the videos for the tracks "Take It Away", "All That I've Got" and "I Caught Fire", as well as questions and answers for almost 30 minutes. The CD includes only 9 of the 11 tracks of the concert presented on the DVD. In my opinion, they should have included at least the full concert on it. In conclusion, it’s a package for fans only, containing interesting elements, but much more useless material. (March 2007)

Reprise / Warner

½

Voivod - Tatsumaki: Voivod Japan 2008 (DVD)

Voivod - Tatsumaki: Voivod Japan 2008 (2009)

In September 2008, the legendary Quebec metal band Voivod visited Japan for the first time during the Thrash Domination Festival. The 63-minute concert at the Citta Club in Kawasaki was captured with 3 cameras and we can find it here on DVD. Late guitarist Denis “Piggy” D’Amour is replaced by Dan Mongrain, whereas we can see for the first time in 7 years their original bass player, Blacky. We can hear a dozen tracks from the 7 first years of the band, whose climax is their excellent cover of “Astronomy Domine” from Pink Floyd (in the Syd Barrett era), which appeared on Nothingface in 1989. In addition to the excellent concert, we can discover 3 bonuses: a performance of 3 songs captured on July 17, 2009 at the Imperial Theatre in Quebec City for the Summer Festival, a 20-minute interview with Dave Grohl (Nirvana, Foo Fighters), a long time fan of Voivod, and finally a faux mini-documentary not really interesting. This DVD presents in a great way the energy of the band on stage in addition to showing all its experiment. It’s thus an excellent way of discovering or rediscovering the greatest metal band in Quebec history. (January 2010)

MVD

War - Loose Grooves: Funkin' Live In England 1980 (DVD)

War, Loose Grooves: Funkin' Live In England 1980 (2007)

War is a jazz/funk group of 7 members which especially evolved in the Seventies and with which worked Eric Burdon of The Animals. The DVD offered here presents a concert recorded on April 9, 1980 at the Civic Theatre in Halifax, England. We can hear 8 tracks, with some having never-ending solos of harmonica, saxophone or guitar. The concert lasts 51 minutes and it includes the hits "Low Rider" and "Why Can't We Be Friends" (this last one played as encore). The sound that is not very good unfortunately badly emphasizes the very good performance of the musicians. Moreover, you will not find any extra on the DVD, which would certainly have helped to increase its value. It’s unfortunately a DVD for the fans only since few neophytes will be charmed by this concert which is however very good in that genre. (June 2007)

RPM / MVD

Johnny Winter - Live Through the ‘80s (DVD)

Johnny Winter - Live Through the ‘80s (2010)

Blues / rock guitarist Johnny Winter had good years on tour during the 1980s and this is what they present here. The DVD Live Through the '80s chronologically presents 19 performances, most of them captured live between 1983 and 1988. It begins at the Massey Hall in Toronto on April 6, 1983, before resuming into a huge outdoor concert at the Roskilde Festival in Denmark on June 29, 1984, while he impressed with his performances of "Jumpin 'Jack Flash" of The Rolling Stones, "Highway 61" of Bob Dylan and "Johnny B. Goode" of Chuck Berry (even if he suddenly stopped, frustrated to have objects thrown at him). He can also be seen onstage in New Jersey in November 1984 and in New Hampshire in December, before viewing two videos. Finally, he performs in Sweden in 1987 and in Italy in July 1988. Taken together, these different performances do an excellent overview of Johnny Winter’s career in the 1980s. This is a very good document for his fans, in addition to allow novices to discover his excellent guitar playing. (February 2011)

MVD

½

X - The Unheard Music (DVD)

X - The Unheard Music (2011)

X is one of the first punk bands to emerge from Los Angeles in the late 1970s. The Unheard Music is an independent film dating back to 1985 introducing the band while it was at the top of its game. You can hear 17 of their classics from their first four albums. This legendary rock film is finally presented to us in high definition, surround sound and including many never-seen-before bonus materials. Despite the odd side of several images shown between the musical performances, the film manages to plunge us back into the atmosphere of the group and of that time. Here is a document to discover for any fan of X and punk music in general. (March 2012)

Angel City / MVD

Yes - The New Director’s Cut (2 DVD)

Yes - The New Director’s Cut (2 DVD) (2008)

Here are 2 DVDs presenting 2 full concerts captured on the world tour for their 35th anniversary at N.I.A., Birmingham (on July 3, 2003) and at Glastonbury Festival (on June 29, 2003). We can see the original members of Yes in an exceptionally good shape. They play most of all classics of the Seventies, excluding totally the more popular hits of the group during the following decade. With these 2 performances and many interviews with the band members, this is here a very complete document to introduce these giants of progressive rock. We can see and hear the huge talent of these great musicians. The only detail that is not perfect on the DVD is the fact that the interviews are presented between the performances on stage. I would have preferred to be able to hear the concerts without interruptions. For others, this assembly will be more interesting. Also, the Birmingham concert resumes on the 2nd DVD, another interruption which I would have liked to be able to avoid. In spite of these less interesting aspects, the fans will have very much for their money. This 2-DVD set is probably the best document of its kind to be issued about Yes to date. (March 2009)

Classic / MVD

½

Various artists:

 

America’s Music Legacy: Country and Western (DVD)

America’s Music Legacy: Country and Western (2010)

This 2-hour program recorded in the mid-1980s presents classic American country and western, including several legends performing. The host of the evening is Gene Weed. The most interesting performances are certainly the ones by Doug Kershaw, Eddie Dean, Patti Page and Ricky Skaggs. On the other way, the most surprising presence is certainly that of Jerry Lee Lewis, an artist which is more often associated with rock 'n' roll than country. Lewis offers us nothing less than 8 tracks including his greatest hits. His presence brings some credibility to a DVD that would have seemed rather insignificant otherwise. Several important stars of country are indeed missing for the DVD to be up to its title. (February 2011)

Quantum Leap / MVD

America’s Music Legacy: Gospel (DVD)

America’s Music Legacy: Gospel (2010)

In the series America's Music Legacy, here is the presentation of gospel. This Christian musical style has its origins from American slavery and it extends today to reggae, rumba and jazz. Moreover, a great number of soul and R&B artists were inspired by it for years, including the king of rock 'n' roll, Elvis Presley, which interpreted many songs of gospel throughout his career. This DVD presents a television show dating from the mid-1980s and hosted by Levar Burton. During 1 hour and 45 minutes, one can see and hear some of the biggest gospel artists performing on stage, including old recordings of legendary Mahalia Jackson. Among the other introduced artists, there is Andrae Crouch, The Winans, The Archers, Marion Williams, Doug Miller, The Walter Hawkins Family, Sandra Crouch, The Chambers Family, Linda Hopkins and several others. Obviously, a kind of knowledge of the genre will help you in your appraisal of the performances offered. On the other hand, the DVD can also enable you to discover this typically American genre. (December 2010)

Quantum Leap / MVD

America’s Music Legacy: Rhythm & Blues

America’s Music Legacy: Rhythm & Blues (2010)

Rhythm & blues, now called simply R&B, is a part of the musical genres that have their roots in black American music. Rhythm & blues was directly inspired by jazz and gospel, and it would later give birth to rock 'n' roll, as well as rap and hip hop. In this TV show of 1985, now available on DVD, they go back to the very foundations of rhythm & blues while watching on stage legends of the genre. Hosted by Billy Eckstine, the show features performances by Sam Moore, Sheer Delight, Brook Benton, Scatman Crothers, Mary Wells, Billy Preston and many others. Although several of the tracks presented are not well known, we can learn a little more about one of the most important genres to have emerged in the United States. (January 2011)

Quantum Leap / MVD

America’s Music Legacy: Rock ‘n Roll

America’s Music Legacy: Rock ‘n Roll (2010)

In the 1950s, rock 'n' roll was born from a fusion between rhythm & blues and country music. It was going to start the first multiracial and multicultural American movement and to change the face of music forever. In 1985, a mega-concert hosted by Fabian took place in Louisiana featuring among others The Coasters, Chubby Checker, Bo Diddley and Little Anthony. For 1 hour and 50 minutes, the guest artists paid a vibrating tribute to the rock 'n' roll sound of the 1950s and 1960s, interpreting more than forty memorable hits of that time, sometimes inside medleys. If you’re nostalgic of that unique era in music history or if you’re younger and want to discover the basics of rock 'n' roll, here is a great and unique concert which is finally offered in DVD format. (November 2010)

Quantum Leap / MVD

Stop the War Coalition Benefit Concert DVD

Stop the War Coalition (Benefit Concert) (2006)

This concert against war was captured on November 27, 2005 at the Astoria in London. The French singer born in Algeria Rachid Taha performs for most of the concert, even if he is joined on stage by Brian Eno and Mick Jones (of The Clash). We can also see Imogen Heap (for one song) and Nitin Sawhney with Brian Eno (for 3 tracks) opening for Taha. There is also an introduction speech by Chris Nineham and Brian Eno. After a good performance on piano by Imogen Heap in a style reminding us of Tori Amos, Nitin Sawhney gives us experimental music, an ambient trip hop sound. After that, the contagious energy of Rachid Taha don’t wastes time and brings the happy crowd to dance. His rock style with a lot of beat with Arab tendencies and other world beats is perfect for that kind of benefit concert, because he creates a perfect link between Arab world and Europe. This is an excellent concert that is offered here and you could easily forget the title of the DVD and simply purchase it like if it was a Rachid Taha DVD. You will have a lot for your money, especially if you’re a Taha fan. (December 2006)

MVD

½

 

VIDEOGRAPHY:

 

AC/DC - Family Jewels

AC/DC - Family Jewels (2 DVD) (2005)

Here is a magnificent piece of collection making a great retrospective of AC/DC’s career. The DVDs contain 40 videos, TV performances and on stage performances between 1975 and 1990. There are only a couple of hits they had after that and that are missing to make it a complete anthology of their career. On the first DVD, covering the years 1975-80, they present the first singer of the band, Bon Scott, in exceptional performances giving us the opportunity to discover him and appreciate him like never before. A few blues and rhythm & blues classics mixed with the excellent hits of the band between its debut and the Highway To Hell album make a DVD of a unique quality. The second DVD includes 20 hits of the band in the years 1980-90 with Brian Johnson as singer. It includes the hits from the Back In Black album, their best and the one that sold the most around the world in their career. A booklet full of interesting information and a great presentation, as well for the booklet as for the menus, complete beautifully those 2 hours and a half of the best of AC/DC. Despite the few lacks, it’s definitely a double DVD to have in your collection. (July 2005)

Devo – The Complete Truth About De-Evolution (DVD)

DevoThe Complete Truth About De-Evolution (2014)

U.S. band Devo is certainly one of the innovators that have emerged from the 1970s. The new wave band was indeed overflowing of creativity and it is particularly reflected in its music videos. This DVD provides an overview of the group twenty videos and rare live footage. In addition, we can find lots of extras (other live performances, photos, interviews). The 70-minute DVD thus provides a good overview of all the exhilarating side of the band. (April 2014)

MVD

Video Universe - Buy DVDs, TV on DVD, Music CDs, Games for XBox, PlayStation 2 and Much More

D.O.A. - The Men of Action (DVD)

D.O.A. - The Men of Action (2009)

The Canadian version of the Sex Pistols, D.O.A., crossed the line of the 30-year career. For the occasion, they offer a superb DVD containing 26 videos, most of them recorded live. So, the DVD can be used as the ultimate compilation for the band, in spite of the presence of live tracks. Moreover, it was remastered for a quality audio result. We can also listen to the 26 videos accompanied by comments by Joe “Shithead” Keithley, the singer, guitarist and leader of the band. In bonus, Sudden Death Records includes in the package their 2008 album, the excellent Northern Avenger. The album, which was produced by Canadian Bob Rock (Metallica, Mötley Crüe), includes the very effective “Human Bomb” and “Police Brutality”, also included on the DVD, in addition to the cover of Creedence Clearwater Revival, “Who Will Stop the Rain”. This is thus a great gift the band is offering to its longtime fans to celebrate its 30th anniversary. (November 2009)

Sudden Death / MVD

Fulanito - Greatest Video Hits (DVD)

Fulanito - Greatest Video Hits (2011)

Fulanito is a band founded about fifteen years ago in Dominican Republic by Rafael Vargas. It takes merengue and other Latin rhythms and introduces rap and reggae to it. Very popular in the world of Latin music, the band presents here a collection in images of its greatest hits. The DVD offers 15 videos which songs are from five albums of the band issued between 1997 and 2004 (including a remix album). There are also two bonus music videos, the concert version of "Guallando" and the English version of "Millennium Cookout". Of course, the sun and pretty girls are always there to present you these dynamic rhythms. Some videos seem a little cheap, but there are still some nice images. Greatest Video Hits offers a good way to explore this popular Dominican band. (January 2012)

Video: « Quien Es Fulanito »

Cutting / MVD

 

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