Having experienced The Concert for Bangladesh on film at the legendary Whangamata Picture Theatre in the mid 70's, and owned the triple album, this event with George only providing the songs and inspiration really is a sublime experience. The difference in the production between the two concerts is a true lesson in how far the recording process has come. TCfB album (coproduced by Phil Spector and George) proudly states it was achieved via 44 microphones. TCfG sounds like 4,440 mikes were used.
The depth and clarity of the recording is gorgeous.
An indication of the feeling of the organisers to get this concert right is borne out by the number of performers who played on both. Most notable being Eric, Ringo, Jim Keltner, Klaus Voorman, (not to forget) Billy Preston, Jim Horn and the list goes on. The song selection is pretty amazing, again there are some magor crossovers between the two concerts - My Sweet Lord, Here Comes the Sun, Something, Beware of Darkness, Wah Wah. I don't think this version of Honey Don't will ever be beaten as a mind boggling display of musician ship and production. High praise goes to Ringo for Photograph, and if this songs lyrics can't get you feeling a bit choked, listen again and again. Macca looks suitably lost over the loss of a dear friend, and this rendition of Something has to be played loud over a decent sound system. Special mention to the girls on backing vox.
I only wish they interviewed everyone who played, on the second disc, which is the special features. The footage of the rehearsals is a real insight to what a staggering line up of professional musicians this is.
Another personality at both concerts is of course Ravi Shankar. He initiated I suppose TCfB, and the sitar segment here is probably more accessable than TCfB. Ably conducted by his daughter this is an interesting listen, and the piece written (for the night?) is a good crossover of sitar and guitar.
Buy this DVD, you will not be let down. I would love to have been at this concert, but I wouldn't have wanted it to finish. With the remote in hand, it doesn't have to. Thank you Eric, if this night at the RAH is your way of repaying a good friend for help in the past, you did it perfectly. Has anyone read the lyrics to Bye Bye Love on the Dark Horse Album?