|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
A SoundPress.net Feature Article by Rich and Laura Lynch Lou Reed was a founding member of The Velvet Underground, a band that was known for their innovative, loud and wild music. The Velvet Underground was a predecessor for the punk movement of the 70's. Lou is also well respected for a lengthily solo career that has explored a diversity of images, musical styles and edgy topics. Reed, a long time New Yorker, has won many awards and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His latest project, Spanish Fly: Live in Spain is now available on DVD and was filmed at the Benicassim Festival in Spain on August 7, 2004. The live concert includes a full set of songs that spanned the various phases of Lou's career including 'Sweet Jane' and 'Venus In Furs' from his Velvet Underground days to classic solo projects such as 'Walk On The Wild Side'.
 This live performance features Lou playing mostly rhythms and a few leads but not the wild guitar licks that Reed was known for in the 60's. Lou stands center stage clad in all black. He is a deliberate performer delivering his hits efficiently. Lou is surrounded by first-rate musicians who bring energy and spark to Lou's rather serious stage show. Mike Rathke on guitar, Fernando Sauders on bass, Tiny "Thunder" Smith on drums and the animated Jane Scarpantgoni on cello bring innovations to Lou's songs a few that have been reworked for the concert. The camera angles throughout the DVD were good allowing opportunities for each player to shine. A view from behind showed that Lou was using a teleprompter. The stage itself was stark and it appeared that there was a rather big space between Reed and the audience. Yet, the Benicassium fans were enthusiastic clapping along to 'Sweet Jane' and attentive during the chilling cello solo in the eight minute version of 'Venus In Furs'. 'Romeo Had Juliette' clocked in at over ten minutes and featured the band crafting a rhythmic backdrop as Lou spent more time on the guitar playing thick, distorted chords. This was my personal favorite of the eleven-track set. The drummer seated behind glass appeared to be having a good time pounding out precise beats. Spanish Fly is a straightforward concert DVD with few extra features. It is 90 minutes of classic rock and roll. The one bonus is a photo gallery of pictures taken by Lou himself. Live In Spain captures Lou Reed the legend still entertaining people and doing what he does best. Related Links: For more information on Lou Reed and the other organizations mentioned please visit the following links -- BUY Lou Reed DVD | BUY Lou Reed CD
(Originally Published on June 28, 2005) |
PLEASE CONTACT US AT -- PHONE: 973.556.5400|E-MAIL
About Us | Band & Artist Community | Client Testimonials | Concert Tickets New Members & Music | Press Releases | Radio Show | Reviews-CD | Reviews-DVD | Send Music
© 2012 SoundPress.net | All Rights Reserved
|
