Pads & Panels

Title: AC/DC: Let There Be Rock

Format: DVD

Studio: Warner Bros.

Rating:

Review by: Bill Jones

Take one of the greatest rock bands in the world and capture the energy and excitement on film during a Paris performance that turned out to be the last filmed show AC/DC front man Bon Scott performed, with classic songs like “Highway to Hell,” “Whole Lot of Rosie” and “Let There Be Rock,” and that should be a recipe for immense success. The thing is, the Let There Be Rock release accomplishes just that, but still finds a way to muck it up bit.

First and foremost are the interview segments that are used to divide the show and create a concert film, rather than just a live video release. But the questions are absolutely ridiculous, and while it does serve as a snapshot of the band, it provides very little insight. It’s throwaway material, or in terms rock stars might understand but be hurt to hear – filler. And along with a silly filmed segment it simply detracts from the brilliant performance that can stand just fine on its own. (more…)

Title: Less Than Jake DVD [Anthology]

Format: DVD

Label: Sleep it Off Records

Rating:

Review by: Bill Jones

Despite the rather plain and simple name on the box of Less Than Jake DVD, the Gainesville ska band’s video-centric release contains four discs packed with more than eight hours of footage, effectively earning its other name, Anthology. And with six full album performances, extra live tracks and plenty more from over the years, it’s a collection Less Than Jake fans don’t need to think twice about picking up.

The first three discs contain three shows apiece, featuring the entire album performances of six of the band’s albums from a string of shows in Florida in 2007. Albums performed are Hello Rockview, Pezcore, Anthem, Borders and Boundaries, Losing Streak and In With the Out Crowd. The performances are the same as those seen on the bonus DVDs included with the Sleep It Off album rereleases (including the audio problems with Losing Streak), but they are uncut from start to finish, and each show features “bonus tracks” in this collection not seen on the other versions. (more…)