Back in 1974, rolling Stone journalist Jon Landau famously hailed Springsteen as “the future of rock’n’roll”. Thirty years on and The Boss is widely acknowledged as one of the all-time great live performers. Given this awesome reputation, it’s almost impossible to believe that this is the first Springsteen live show to be released in its entirety.
Recorded in 2002, it’s pretty much as you’d expect?a masterclass in barnstorming showmanship. But it’s not without flaws: the show was partly broadcast live on satellite television, and consequently the cameras inhibited the band’s movements on stage for the first half of the gig. The set list is a satisfying mix of old favourites alongside material from The Rising. Early on we get a fiery “Prove It All Night” and a jubilant “Waiting On A Summer Day”, while later standouts include solo piano versions of “Spirit In The Night” and “Incident On 57th Street”, plus a majestic “Land Of Hope And Dreams”.
Springsteen turned 54 in September, and this may turn out to be his last big tour with the E Street Band. For those who missed the shows, this DVD gives some indication of what they missed, and for those who were there this is a perfect way to look back on those glory days.
DVD EXTRAS: None.