Yes-Live at the House of Blues Dreamtheater-Metropolis 2000 Stevie Ray Vaughn-Live at ElMocambo Kansas-Kansas Nine Inch Nails-And All that could have been Stevie Ray Vaughn-Live at Austin City Limits Metallica-With the SanFrancisco Symphony Rush-Exit Stage Left
Filmed during Spring 2003, this DVD was filmed as part of Toto's 25th Anniversary celebrations. Up to now, only one other DVD/Video had been released of the band live (1990's Toto-Live) and there couldn't be a more marked contrast. Good as Live was, this really is now the definitive Toto concert. Part of that is the return, 4 years ago, of original singer Bobby Kimball, who sounds better than ever, and part seems to be a mellowing over the years of the bands attitude. This isn't an all bells and whistles light and special effects show. Whilst the concert hall itself is gigantic, the atmosphere remains intimate and laid back and the crowd, throughout, seem to be having a fantastic time (something that can make or break a live filming). It's all about the music and the band are on stunning form, running through at least one song from each album they've released, if sometimes only as part of two giant medleys. All the hits are there, but some older, less well aired material is also included to keep fans happy. The musicianship is faultless, as most fans have come to expect. It's terrific to see a band that don't just run through a pre-rehearsed line up, trying to mimic their albums. Here, the band improvise throughout, taking the songs places even die hard fans won't have heard before. Best of all though, is just how much fan the band themselves seem to be having. After 25 years of media criticism, Jeff Porcaro's death, management problems and lead singers coming and going every few years, they'd be forgiven for just going through the motions these days. But they have never been better and never seemed more relaxed. It's a joy to behold for fans everywhere.
As a little extra, the disc also features a video diary of the Through The Looking Glass tour. Containing no commentary and being almost entirely filmed on a handheld home recorder, this gives a terrific little insight into the band behind the scenes. Whilst some of it is plain odd (the band bowling in Japan)and some a little dull (having a meal together), other parts are downright hilarious. especially when Steve Lukather gets anywhere near the camera, or a microphone! And I will just mention the Christmas song on the bus and say no more. I was in tears of laughter afterwards!!!
If you're a fan then you absolutely MUST buy this. If not, well, it's your loss...
ELO's Zoom Tour Live is absolutely the most awesome sounding and looking concert DVD I've ever seen. Outstanding production values and ELO's greatest songs played to perfection...in glorious DTS!
You have got to see (and HEAR!)this one to believe it.
I just can't believe that with all the record companies focusing their attention on prosecuting file-swappers, they haven't realized the potential market for HIGH QUALITY concert dvd's.
Hello execs. I didn't mind paying $35 for Heart - Alive In Seattle. In fact, I thought the price for that kind of quality was a 'steal'.
I am sure that the cost to produce a quality live concert dvd is high, but more of us have 'home theatre' now, and live video mixed with high quality sound is a natural for the technology.
Any other recommendations ? How about "Cult", "The Wall", "Peter Gabriel" ??
I watched Heart-Alive In Seattle 3 times last night... worth every penny.
Ann your voice is still one of the most powerful rock voices I have ever heard and Nancy your guitar playing is exemplary. Proof that great things are appreciated more with time.