Otis Westinghouse wrote:Excellent clips. Watched them all. Shame that 'Concert Chick' only went for the greatest hits, though. Much as I love Elvis, the camera is positioned perfectly for a detailed study of the mighty Pete (although on Chelsea he's in total darkness!). Much as when, so many years ago now, I've seen this line-up in action, I watch about 6 parts Pete to 1 part Elvis. I love the way he occasionally sings along, then closes his mouth and breathes as if swimming. He's so hyperactive, even at 56, there's just no stopping the guy.
Must have been a great show to be at. Elvis is on fine form and his voice is better than ever, like an anti-Dylan. If in 1977 you'd been shown those clips and told 'and this is Elvis in 34 years' time', he'd be pretty damn recognisable. Fire in the belly and venom in the band. Love the way he attacks the guitar on Chelsea.
I think the thing that would surprise the visitor from 1977 the most is the amount of loud guitar the modern-day Elvis plays. Those songs from Momofuku were noisier than anything he played in 77.
I was on the Davey side of the stage, so I was watching him a lot during this show, and I really had a new appreciation for his bass playing. And he looks like he's having fun up there, which is cool. I also enjoyed watching Pete, who's one of my favorite drummers. It's the little touches--like the counting beat after Elvis sings "A horse that knows arithmetic" in Uncomplicated--that make him stand out.
A week and a day later, I'm still jazzed about this show. Those guys were really enjoying themselves. The 1-2-3 of I Hope You're Happy Now, Possession, and Uncomplicated really kicked things off. New Lace Sleeves brought a big smile to my face--I hadn't listened to Trust in a while and I wasn't even thinking of that song, so it snuck up on me with a pleasant surprise. Stella Hurt was an awesome sight. And the country version of Luxembourg needs to be repeated again.
Bring on the Wheel!