Most Helpful Customer Reviews
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9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Definitive Pure Artist Experience., April 1, 2006
One of the most phenomenal DVDs in recent memory, "Alicia Keys: Unplugged" is one of the first MTV Unplugged DVDs released since Lauryn Hill's performance dating back to 2002. This DVD has proved to be the consummate entertainment experience. With a wide variety of music displayed in the contents of this video, which include Smooth Jazz, Pop, Funk, R&B, Blues, and Reggae, the genius of Alicia Keys & her band led by keyboardist/producer/musical director Onree Gill literally drive the audience into the past, present and the future of what true musicianship is all about. Every song is conveyed with strong skills and a sensational spirit. There is nothing but sheer quality seeping through this masterpiece! The album starts with an a capella prayer sung by Alicia which covers the traditional gospel pieces "Father, I Stretch My Hands..." & "Remember Me." As soon as the prayer posts, the band punctuated by a powerfully charged orchestra and strings team arranged by the great Ray Chew alongside resolute horn arrangements by Chops lend their staggering musical energy to the hit song, "Karma." One thing that's clearly understated with Alicia Keys is the fact that she is selfless, is always eager to get the crowd involved and offers the other performers an opportunity to access their creative intensity. Such is the case when background vocalist Jermaine Paul sings on "Heartburn" and harmonizes with Alicia on "If I Ain't Got You." Anaysha Figueroa, who sings background for Kirk Franklin, Sara Devine and Denise Stoudmire all blend their vocal talents in background and ad libs. Alicia has also really blossomed in her performance. Vocally, she digs deeper with more soul and vigor. She has so much fun with "Heartburn," "Unbreakable," and literally riffs like crazy on "How Come You Don't Call Me" [giving Prince a run for his money] and "A Woman's Worth," which slickly and gracefully covers the Isley Brothers' "Footsteps in the Dark." Other exclusive performances include, "Diary," [no need to explain that song lol!] "Every Little Bit Hurts," a reference to Nasir "Nas" Jones' classic from "Illmatic," "NY State of Mind" in her original poem "Streets of New York," (a.k.a. "City Life") which has a staggering jazz arrangement coupled with strong vocals that put you in the mindframe of Stevie Wonder's "Living for the City." "Stolen Moments" is one of my favorite songs as well as the fusion of Hip-Hop, Soul, & Reggae in the medley, "Love It or Leave It Alone/Welcome to Jamrock" featuring Common, Mos Def, Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley & Alicia's MBK team. Maroon 5's Adam Levine makes a surprise appearance with his acoustic guitar and amazing falsetto on "Wild Horses." This performance is a gem that has more than lived up to its hype and publicity. Get ready for Alicia Keys' upcoming tour & new album slated for release in the fall of 2006!!!
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15 of 17 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
EXCELLENT Audio/Video/Performances, November 11, 2005
TOP, TOP notch DVD for your collection. I have 40+ Music/Concert DVDs. This one is one of the special ones. The audio quality is AWESOME. Much better depth and layering of musicians than even great DVDs like Alison Krauss + Union Station. A bit exaggerated with the bass on some tunes, but that can be dealt with.
Her performance (and the band) are STELLAR. She is simply a joy to watch. Camera angles are simple and appropriate. Video quality is excellent.
I watch this 2-3 times per week...and I always think it will be a couple songs...and ends up being the entire disc.
GET IT. You will not be sorry.
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7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Alicia Keys, simply beautiful..., October 18, 2005
This is a DVD with the extras as if you were at a concert of hers. I have gone to one of her concerts, and this is exactly how she plays true, beautifully, and with sex appeal. Her renditions are not only unique and creative, but they keep the very same appeal as their originals. This DVD is shot very well, and sounds great. Just the simple things you should be looking for in the music DVDs. If you enjoy her music, then you surely should enjoy this item.
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