Live performance of the experimental rock group Blue Man Group.Genre: Music Video: ConcertsRating: NRRelease Date: 25-NOV-2003Media Type: DVD
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I love everything about Blue Man Group: the concept; the music; the humor; and, of course, the weirdness. This DVD is NOT of one of the typical BMG shows from New York, Boston, Chicago, or Las Vegas, rather, it is a concert from their recent ‘Complex Rock Tour’, which is totally different materiel. The DVD was actually taken from two shows, one in Dallas, and one in Minneapolis. I was fortunate enough to be at the Minneapolis show that this DVD is partially taken from, and watching this is almost as good as being there.
The musical performances, showmanship, sound quality, and cinematography on the DVD are breathtaking, and make me want to go see BMG again as soon as possible. There are standout performances by guest vocalists Tracy Bonham and Venus Hum (in the greatest dress I have ever seen anywhere on anyone.) I would have liked to see the Bonham opening set (especially the Led Zeppelin violin recital), but unfortunately the producers didn’t accommodate my desires. Here both vocalists are used to excellent effect.
The music itself is potently addictive (I have the soundtrack CD in my car) and intriguing. Of course BMG is known for percussion (which I adore), and that is spotlighted to excellent effect on the DVD. The whole band is wonderful, and provides an excellent, and often whimsical, backdrop for the antics of the three Blue Men. Particular standouts for me are “Above”, “Time to Start”, “Up On The Roof”, and the beautiful, haunting tribute to September 11 victims, “Exhibit 13.” Also of note are the comedic links used in which an offstage recorded voice gives instructions in ‘Rock Star Movements’ which the Blue Men then teach the audience (my personal favorites are Numbers 4 and 237.)
The DVD has a couple of extras, including the music videos for “Sing Along” (featuring a dazed looking Dave Matthews), “The Current”, and the magnificently minimalist “Exhibit 13.” Be sure to watch these, as they give a totally different perspective on the songs. You also want to catch the DVD credits. I won’t say why, but trust me on this one.
All told, this is an excellent introduction to the eccentricity that is Blue Man Group, and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in music, comedy, or general oddity.
I’ve been to the Blue Man Group’s theatrical productions in Chicago and Vegas, and enjoyed both very much, and managed to see the last show of the tour, but the first experience is always the one that stands out. I knew the Rock Concert Tour was something the BMG was trying to attempt for some time, and the Complex Tour was a great effort.
Some of the vocalists on the CD did not tour with BMG, but contrary to another review, a few of the vocalists did. Tracy Bonham sang “Up to the Roof” on the CD, and helped out with other songs on the tour. Venus Hum was there for “I Feel Love”, an awesome Donna Sommer cover (and no, I’m not a Donna Sommer fan).
What you get on this DVD is a compilation of 2 shows. As a result, some of what you see isn’t always in synch with what you hear. But it’s close. To the average viewer, it won’t even be noticed. You also get a few music videos that have been played on VH-1. On the flip side of the DVD are 3 songs in 5.1 and DTS. A full 5.1/DTS Audio-DVD will be released later this year.
As far as a Blue Man Group experience… that really can only be had experiencing them live.
What you don’t get on this DVD are the cool opening sets by Tracy Bonham and Venus Hum. Every headliner needs an opening act, right? They alternated as opening acts for BMG during the tour.
You don’t get the “White Rabbit” Jefferson Airplane cover, and you don’t get the purported spontaneous playing of “Freebird” when someone in the audience yells out the request.
As far as concert DVD’s go, this is one of the best. For someone who’s never seen them, and lives too far to see one of their theatrical productions, this DVD will help bridge the gap.