Customer Rating:      Summary: Steve is the Greatest, but he doesn't know it Comment: I saw the SMB in Clarkston, Michigan this year (2008) on June 27th with the addition of Sonny Charles (who Steve says is "like having Otis Redding in the Band") and that was even better than this DVD, but this DVD is by far the best recorded video of Steve, Norton, Kenny Lee, Joseph, Gordy and Billy that there is. The reason I say it is better this year is that Steve is the happiest I've ever seen him (and I've been a fan since 1968)in '08 but this '07 from Chicago is something he had to do, since that's where he cut his chops as is shown so faithfully in disc 2.
In that disc, you must watch both videos - the second is called the radio show but it is another version of the video which sheds more light on Steve's pre-SF giggin' and learning in Chi-town with Buddy Guy, Barry Goldberg, Howlin' Wolf (his story of going to Silvio's to see the Wolf with his friend is priceless - and sooo true as I can attest because I did a similar pilgrimmage in 1969 and the Wolf was amazingly hospitable and friendly...and yes his hands were soooo huge - like steaks, I would say), Muddy Waters, Junior Wells, Otis Rush, Corky Seigel, Paul Butterfield, Elvin Bishop, Jerome Arnold, Sammy Lay,etc. I also had a blues band in Ann Arbor and made several trips to Chicago in the late 60's/early 70's. What's amazing to me is how honest and true Steve's recollection of the place, the scene, the personalities were. He even mentions Bob Koester of Delmark Records (who I also met and spoke with at length one day) who recorded the classic "Hoodoo Man Blues" which was my main inspirational disc for doing the blues band thing and Steve says that this disc was perhaps the greatest one ever recorded for Buddy and Junior. Of course he's right!!!
There is magic (and lots of hard work and preparation) in this band and all the songs that they do. This is a wonderful concert, the videography (if that's what you call it) is fantastic with so many angles and close ups and pans that you really feel like you are there - plus the pre-concert interviews (in the parking lot, on the grass, etc.) with fans is also priceless. The execution of the songs is fantastic, and as usual, Steve and the Band always spruce up the tunes to improve them each year - Fly Like An Eagle is particulary fine this time, especially Steve's solo.
By all means, if you appreciate Steve, get this DVD. It is timeless, it is honest, it is true. I cannot wait for the new music that the SMB recorded (including Sonny Charles) at Skywalker Studios this past spring to be released. Steve is an American living treasure, a true gentleman, and a gift to all of us. If you don't believe me, ask Paul McCartney. Of course, he is indebted to many, especially his mother, as you will find out if you listen to the radio show.
One thing I will say is that I experienced the lyrics and the lips were not always totally in synch on my disc. There appeared to be a digital mismatch at times. This was unfortunate.
Bob Goldenthal
West Bloomfield, MI
Customer Rating:      Summary: smband Comment: The show was great. Steve had really good players w/him.. With all the music he has recorded I don't know why he has to throw in copy tunes of other bands even if they were some of his fav. musicians. The only other thing about the dvd I didn't like was the price was a little high compared to other dvds. Sound was very good & the venue looked very nice. The cameras liked blonde women in the audience.. lol.
Customer Rating:      Summary: Must Buy! Comment: I recently saw Steve Miller Band perform live in concert in San Francisco, so when I heard they were releasing a new cd/dvd, I just had to get it. I'm so glad I did! Excellant CD! It has most of his greatest hits. The DVD is great to watch. Its about 90 minutes long and it pretty much is identical to the concert that I saw him perform in March 08. I highly recommend this collection, you wont be disappointed!!
The only part of the entire CD I didnt care much for was the version of "Fly like an Eagle" which incorporated some rap lyrics from their keyboardist. The rap music was done tastefully, but personnally I dont care for rap and think SM should have left it out. Other than that, EXCELLANT gift set!!!!!!
Customer Rating:      Summary: Warning: REMOVE DISKs CAREFULLY Comment: Love the concert but the audio CD snapped upon first removing as it was extra tight. I actually give it 5 stars but posted 1 star to draw attention to let people know to be more careful than I was when removing the disk.
Customer Rating:      Summary: steve miller band Comment: this is a great concert,the sound is exelenct, and steve miller still has it. I waited for this dvd, and it was worth wating for.Worth the money,go for it.
|