Customer Reviews

Chet Atkins: Rare Performances 1976-1995

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4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

So many reviews of Chet Atkins music are filled with comments of how bad the video quality is or how cheesy the musical programs were.
With Chet Atkins, the proof is in the pudding.
You just have to see him play and that eliminates all the talk.

This compilation is right in the middle of the time of early video and
embarrasing wardrobe of the late 70's and early 80's; However, Chet Atkins is an inspirational guitar player and when he starts playing it's
a treat to the eyes and ears.

The Soundstage performance of Stars and Stripes Forever alone is worth the price of this video. That is one amazing execution!

Guitar players will appreciate how difficult that first chord of Cascade is, yet Chet Atkins makes it look like a walk in the park.
You need to view Yankee Doodle Dixie more than once to appreciate the guitar arrangement and realize that Chet plays Yankee Doodle and Dixie
at the same time!

Those who play the guitar seriously, those who know how much practice and dedication it takes to get to this level, will enjoy this DVD the most.
Chet Atkins always made it look like butter. It is no exception in this disc.

So, get the video, stop complaining and get to practice.
Chet Atkins Rare Performances should inspire you until your fingers fall off.

Chet Atkins was, is, and always will be the master of guitar. This video starts with Chet at about a 52-years-old and ends at about age 71 displaying even at 71, the absolute, unbelievable, versatility and genius of this man. No matter where he is or what song he plays, he never misses a lick. Though it may be considered vintage or classic by some, it is still very current and tasteful. Anytime one has the chance to view this master at his work, I would suggest this, "don't miss the opportunity." This video shows Chet at his best as always, and one does not need to be a guitarist as myself to appreciate this video over and over again. Here, one can immediately tell that Chet loved his guitar and he loved his profession. The great humbleness and talent this man had is so outspoken as shown in this video-DVD. At the end of each performance, one can only sit astounded and say with a smile, "WOW!" This is truly a great collection for any music lover.

Chet Atkins is my guitar hero. He is able to cover many great songs from other artists in his own unique way as any fan of his would know and appreciate. His virtuosic skills are very evident on this DVD and enhance his stature as a great guitarist in my mind. He is a delight just as a one man show and you can experience some of that on this DVD too. I saw Chet Atkins in concert many years ago and had almost forgotten what he looked like on stage performing. I didn't forget though his great personality and humor on stage. This DVD has some great performances and it's great also to see Chet's personality and humor here again too. "Stars & Stripes Forever" is one of the most impressive performances. The DVD covers a large period of time. In some cases the footage and audio isn't up to today's standard's but that is understandable. Obviously the later performances are better filmed and have better audio quality. I like the section on Soundstage in 1978 best, which included Stars & Stripes and also at his home studio in 1995. The performances from the Merle Watson Festival in 1992 has a very entertaining performance of "There'll be some changes made". Anyway... long live Chet Atkins.

This video is a masterful compellation of the master's greatest songs. Now, those who have only heard Chet Atkins can see his lightning fast fingers in action.

Even if you are not a Chet Atkins fan in particular, but enjoy good fingerstyle guitar music, this recording is for you. The quality of recording and quality of playing make it a recommended buy for anyone.

I've been a Chet Atkins fan most of my life. In my latter years I've come to admire his technique even more as I try to mimic it on my own guitar. This DVD includes a collection of masterful performances that I had never seen before. Watching this DVD reveals Chet growing older and yet he remains relaxed and steady through some of his more demanding performances. I had to watch it several times over. This makes me want to order the other DVDs in the series.

This DVD does not compare favorably with Chet Atkins Certified Guitar Player. The music is excellent, but the editing is choppy with no continuity or context given.