Customer Reviews

In Concert [VHS]

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

 

 

1) Georgia
2) I Got Rhythm
3) Can't Take That Away From Me
4) In a Mellow Tone
5) Why Did I Choose You
6) The Dolphin
7) Medley: Dixie/Old Man River
8) Sweet Lorraine
9) Stella By Starlight
10) Lulu's Back In Town
11) I Remember Clifford
12) Taking A Chance on Love

The audio and video are excellent and the setting is quaint. Taylor stands alone on stage at the Manchester Craftmen's Guild in Pittsburgh, PA with his hollow body electric guitar running through a dozen tunes in his inimitable style. Shown between the numbers are video clips of Martin describing his approach to playing and setting up the tunes. This is a must have for fans of MT and fingerstyle guitar in general. Also recommended is "World of Fingerstyle Jazz Guitar" on DVD which includes 3 additional cuts from this same concert.

Martin Taylor is Jazz guitar's premiere artist. Every cut on this video leaves you with your mouth hanging open and questions unanswered such as "How does he do that?" and "Are his fingers really moving that fast, or are they robotic?" His cool laid back presence, paired with his outrageous guitar playing will entertain over and over again. I have seen this video numerous times and always hear and see something different every time I stick it in the VCR. Every song is wonderful, but my favorites are "Old Man River", "Sweet Lorraine" and "Georgia" If you appreciate Jazz guitar you will not want to miss this performance.

Although the direction of this concert is bland and the camera angles seldom vary the guitarist's love of the music and the instrument and his astounding technique shine through. The short interview segments are very insightfull and other guitarists will find it very interesting and inspiring. The song selection is very good and Mr. Taylor approaches each tune with a sense of style and humor never taking himself too seriously.

Taylor's solo concert in Pittsburg in 1996 reveals a not very passionate guitarist with refined technical skill. His backstage commentary before most selections gives insight into his modus operandi. Will appeal to most lovers of jazz guitar, and his version of "I Remember Clifford" is a classic. Those who heard him over the years performimg with Stephane Grappelli will not be disappointed.