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Van Der Graaf Generator: Godbluff Live 1975 – DVD

Seminal progressive masters Van Der Graaf Generator are captured live on film in Charleroi France, on September 27th, 1975, playing the entire Godbluff album. Do I really need to say more ? OK, if that wasn't enough, we also get the 1971 'live in the studio' recordings of "Theme One" and "A Plague Of Lighthouse Keepers", often referred to as the Holy Grail of progressive films. Still need more convincing ?

The show begins rather abruptly with the opening chords of "The Undercover Man". Peter Hammill's voice is in superb shape as he croons his way through the opening sequence. Hugh Banton's organ revvs up as David Jackson's sax squonking takes over. This is Van Der Graaf Generator live in your living room playing one of their best albums ! "Arrow" is up next. Peter's vocals are flawless as he pours his anguished soul into every line. The hairs on my arms literally rise when I hear this track. No one can deliver like Mr Hammill. He is without peers as a progressive vocalist and lyricist. "Scorched Earth" is third on the agenda. Another classic performed with conviction and energy. Guy Evans is a truly underrated drummer. His metronome-like pounding creates the perfect bottom end to Mr Jackson's flutes, saxes, and devices. Lastly, the band's magnum opus: "The Sleepwalkers." Peter Hammill steps away from his piano to deliver one of the finest emotional and flat out solid vocal performances ever shot on film. The band really cooks on this one in the closing instrumental segments . As quickly as it has begun, it's over; leaving the viewer wanting much more.

The entire movie is shot using several cameras. Many interesting angles and extreme close ups lend the film an artistic quality. The film does have some flaws, but given the rarity of the recording, these can be easily overlooked. The editing could have been better though. Hugh Banton is virtually non-existent throughout the film.

The bonus material is the entire "From The Vaults" DVD . We see a younger band, but still displaying the same energy and musical dexterity which is their trademark. Banton, Evans, Jackson, deliver a highly energetic "Theme One." Then Peter arrives and the group launches into " A Plague Of Lighthouse Keepers". This is a very demanding track to perform as it snakes it's way through many musical peaks and valleys. The group is up to the challenge. A younger, long haired Peter Hammill once again demonstrates his vocal prowess and he effortlessly croons and screams his way through the song.

I realize that a perfect score should equate to a perfect product. This one has a few flaws , both visually and aurally. Never-the-less, it's hard to rate any lower. This filmed document captures one of the quintessential progressive rock bands in one of their finest moments. If prog is your religion, then this film equates to the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls. Essential for any fan of the band.

Added: September 14th 2003
Reviewer: Yves Dube
Score:
Related Link: Classic Rock Productions
Hits: 4761
Language: english

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