Customer Reviews

Lynyrd Skynyrd - Lyve- The Vicious Cycle Tour

5 star:		(41)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

Southern Rockers Lynyrd Skynyrd's lastest dvd is from their "Vicious Cycle" tour and was recorded in Nashville,Tennessee at The Amsouth Amphitheatre on July 11, 2003. After watching the dvd I'm convinced this is much better than their "Lyve From Steel Town" concert. The group sounds great and new drummer Michael Cartellone (from the Damn Yankees) sounds great as does new bassist Ean Evans who replaced longtime Skynyrd bassist Leon Wilkeson who passed away recently. The band includes songs from their latest cd "Vicious Cycle" such as "That's How I Like It", "Pick'Em Up", "Red White And Blue" and "The Way". For the first time Skynyrd uses a small orchestra which definately is a nice addition and classic songs such as "Tuesday's Gone" and "Freebird" sound better than ever with the use of the orchestra. The band goes thru their classics such as "What's Your Name", "I Know A Little", "Gimme Three Steps", "Call Me The Breeze", "Sweet Home Alabama", "Simple Man", and a medley of "Gimme Back My Bullets", "Double Trouble", and "The Ballad Of Curtis Lowe". On "Travelin' Man" lead singer Johnny Van Zant alternates singing with his brother, the late Ronnie Van Zant by means of having a screen placed above the group on stage with Ronnie shown singing (from one of the group's 70's concert footage) part of the verse which is recorded perfectly in sync with Lynyrd Skynyrd as they play along. The picture quality of this dvd is excellent and there are alot of closeups of Ricky Medlocke, Huey Thomasson and Gary Rossington playing and alternating guitar licks. The sound quality of this dvd is superb for the most part except that on some songs Huey Thomasson's guitar is not as loud as the other guitarists. This dvd is an absolute must have for Lynyrd Skynyrd fans and those who enjoy listening to seventy's southern rock. Buy it, I guarantee you will not be dissapointed. Highly Recommended!

OK, maybe Johnny Van Zant will never write a "Saturday Night Special" or "Free Bird." And yes, Ronnie's gone, so are Allen, Steve, and Leon. Artimus and Ed, for whatever reasons, have been kicked to the curb. That leaves Gary and Billy and other musicians. So what? The fact that this band is calling itself Lynryd Skynyrd and performing songs by the original band and doing its best to keep going after 30 years does not automatically imply greed, stupidity or a hidden agenda. There are a lot of people who want to buy a ticket and hear this music loud and live. No, this is not a DVD of "One More From The Road." It is a gathering of survivors and fellow travelers who are proudly celebrating the 30 year legacy of a true American legend. It's a stronger and more joyful performance than "Lyve from Steel Town" (even though that concert has its moments too). Maybe we could stop punishing these folks for not being something that they can never be (the "original" Lynryd Skynyrd) and, in the words of Bocephus himself, "leave them boys alone and let 'em sing their songs." Johnny is not trying to BE his brother, he is honoring him. There is a big, big difference.

Lynyrd Skynyrd is living proof that nothing stops Rock 'n' Roll, and that you cannot keep a good band down. Over the years the Skynyrd have suffered from bad management, disagreements, and wrong decisions, coupled all the way with personnel tragedy. When the band was on the crest of a wave in 1977, and probably the number one touring band in America, they suffered an infamous plane crash that took away the lives of lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, lead guitarist Steve Gaines, and backup singer Cassie Gaines, leaving the rest of the band with multiple injuries in hospital. Although Allen Collins recovered from paralysis enough to perform live on stage again, his life - as well - was taken from the band by an untimely car accident. Then, at the start of the recording of the album for this tour 'Vicious Cycle', the life of bassist Leon Wilkeson (the cat in the hat) was taken from the band in July of 2001. It says mountains about the present band members as they keep the Skynyrd Southern flag flying.

The band's roots can be traced back to 1964, when a certain Ronnie Van Zant started singing lead vocals for guitarist Gary Rossington's school band, but this DVD has been released in celebration of thirty years of recording under the Lynyrd Skynyrd banner, starting 1973 with their first album 'Pronounced Leh-Nerd Skin-Nerd' (named after the nickname of the boys' high school gym teacher). It was not until then they started their meteoric rise to stardom.

After the plane crash it took ten years before a band went out on the road under the Skynyrd moniker as a tribute to their fallen brothers. The tour was such a success that it was decided to keep the band permanent, and to tour and record further albums.

At first the lineup was quite liquid, but over the last ten years or so it has stabilized to the present formation, which could wipe the floor live with any band that has ever trod the boards. Two original members are still there from the classic lineup. Gary Rossington, from the original three pronged guitar attack, one of the meanest slide guitarists on the planet; and Billy Powell, the only man who can really play that beautiful piano intro to Freebird. Joining them are Ronnie Van Zant's brother, Johnny Van Zant , on lead vocals; Rickey Medlocke on lead guitar, he used to front the magnificent 'Blackfoot'; and completing the triple axe barrage is Hughie Thomasson (ex 'The Outlaws', perhaps one of the most underrated country/rock bands to come out of the south).

Then replacing Leon Wilkeson on bass is Hughie Thomasson's old band mate Ean Evans. Powering the band from behind the skins is Michael Cartellone. You have to be a very fit young drummer to keep up with these cats. Carol Chase and Dale Krantz Rossington add backing vocals, bringing the Lynyrd Skynyrd contingent up to nine. If they were not flying under the Skynyrd flag, they could truly be called the Southern Rock All Stars.

For this special concert to be recorded for a live CD and DVD, they have also included a brass and string section to add more dynamics to the sound. But do not fret, you hardened Southern Rock fans, it takes none of the Skynyrd gruff vocals and roaring guitars out of the mix. In fact, this is the best I have ever seen or heard the band play, and that is from someone who saw the band twice in the mid Seventies.

Neither is this just a run through of greatest hits from a bygone era. The newer songs are mingled in with the older classics, and believe me, you cannot hear the join.

Off the new album 'Vicious Cycle' (2001) come two of the concert highlights. The song 'Red, White, and Blue' is the most patriotic song ever recorded. With its wonderfully emotional chorus of "My hair is going white, my neck has always been red, and my collar is still blue," it certainly brings a lump to the throat.

At the end of the set another 'Vicious Cycle' song, 'The Way', fits in perfectly between 'Sweet Home Alabama' and 'Freebird'. Now you have to stand pretty tall to stand side by side with those two.

Pop down to Tahitian Queen on Beach road for their famous Rock 'n' Roll Happy Hour and request any song from this DVD to be put on the screen. You will not be disappointed.

"I hope Neil Young will remember."

Viciously put by Mott The Dog
Cycled by Ella Crew

This is the best Skynyrd DVD yet, and the picture is crystal clear. The stage energy from Lynyrd Skynyrd is unbelievable, and the orchestra was a brilliant idea. Also, the close ups of the guitarists are excellent!

Rickey Medlocke - what can you say about this man?! What?! He's been blessed with not only talent, but good looks as well. Rickey looks like the American Indian of the past - towering figure, beautiful hair and a face sculptured by God himself. Medlocke plays guitar standing up and lying down, he sings, he twirls, and he holds the crowd in the palms of his hands.

All members are fabulous and greatly talented. At times watching Ean Evans, I feel like I'm looking at Allen Collins. Gary Rossington and his guitar are breathtaking, and the whole band moves about the stage creating a magical force. But there's something else here. You can feel the presence of Ronnie VZ, Steve & Cassie Gaines, Allen Collins and Leon, just by watching the DVD. Lynyrd Skynyrd manages to create a powerful enchantment on that stage.

I want to mention the two female singers, Dale Krantz Rossington & Carol Chase, because they are necessary to LS, and it seems they never get the credit they deserve, so I'm giving them credit here! They add a special spice to the band and do a great job.

There's only one person on the planet that could step in and take the singing role of RVZ, and that is Johnny VZ. What a great job he does! The tribute to the past members in the Grand Finale is extraordinary; you'll have to see it to believe it! They should all be highly praised for carrying on the torch!

Lynyrd Skynyrd is my very favorite southern rock band. Everything from their stunning debut Pronounced Leh-Nerd Skin-Nerd, to their second album Second Helping, and their classic live album One More From The Road. Skynyrd has put out many classic songs including Free Bird, Sweet Home Alabama, Gimme Three Steps, What's Your Name, and Simple Man, just to name a few. Though they've had tragic turnings, Lynyrd Skynyrd remains one of the greatest U.S. rock bands.

The concert was recorded on July 11, 2003, at the AmSouth Amphitheatre in Nashville, Tennessee, during their Vicious Cycle Tour. The set list for this concert was hit after hit. Here's the set list:

1. That's How I Like It
2. What's Your Name
3. I Know A Little
4. Pick 'Em Up
5. Simple Man
6. That Smell
7. Red White and Blue
8. Down South Jukin' (1:30)
9. Gimme Back My Bullets (2:10)
10. Double Trouble (1:45)
11. The Ballad of Curtis Loew
12. Tuesday's Gone
13. Mississippi Kid
14. Workin'
15. Gimme Three Steps
16. Call Me The Breeze
17. Sweet Home Alabama
18. Travelin' Man
19. The Way
20. Free Bird

That's How I Like It, Pick 'Em Up, Red White and Blue, and The Way are the new songs off Vicious Cycle. Travelin' Man is the only song on the DVD that doesn't appear on the CD soundtrack. Down South Jukin', Gimme Back Your Bullets, and Double Trouble are blended into a medley with each song being played for their listed times. Free Bird clocks in at 12 minutes, and Tuesday's Gone comes in at 9 minutes.

The DVD is awesome. The concert was filmed in High Definition, making the picture quality superb. (The DVD isn't in High Definition, but it's very clear). Plus, the concert is in 5.1 surround sound! So with the big widescreen television and the 5.1 surround system, Lynyrd Skynyrd really comes to life. Johnny does a great job as a replacement for his late brother Ronnie. This DVD was my first time seeing Johnny as lead singer and I really enjoyed him.

The bonus features include:

1. A Lynyrd Skynyrd on-screen biography
2. The Red White and Blue music video
3. A photo gallery
4. A Jim Bean video

Nothing is real special here, unless you like the song Red White and Blue.

In the end, you get a great 5.1 surround sound, crystal clear picture quality, Lynyrd Skynyrd DVD for a list price of 15 dollars. That's 10 dollars less than the CD soundtrack. I highly recommend this DVD for any southern or classic rock fan.

If you like this DVD, then you'll also like these Lynyrd Skynyrd Cds:

1. Pronounced Leh-Nerd Skin-Nerd
2. Second Helping
3. One More From The Road (Live Album)
4. Street Survivors
5. Thyrty (Greatest Hits Compilation)

This is one of the best concert videos I've seen. The detail of the music is great, and you can appreciate how good this band really is. If you like Southern Rock and want to see some of the best guitarists around do what they do best, you need to see this video!

All I can say is much the same as some of the 5 star reviewers before me...I just wanted to add that over here in England, I saw Skynyrd for my one and only time, and it had to be as a support for the (my opinion) overrated Golden Earring...with hindsight, the best 35 minutes of live music I was lucky enough to see and hear. The band were all mangled after some brawl in Germany and my memory is telling me they were one member light on the night (someone put me right please!!!).

Anyway, if you liked Skynyrd of old, then you'll love the Skynyrd of now...watch out on the DVD...there's a bit in Travellin' Man that, firstly, sent that amazing shudder through the ears and down the spine.....but then I blubbed! Real tears....

This is really a fantastic DVD to watch and listen to.

This is a great DVD it includes every Lynyrd Skynyrd hit Song I can think of and I am like the biddest lynyrd skynyrd fan in the world. except for "Don't Ask Too Many Questions", "Dead Man's Theme", "You Got that Right", "Saturday Night Special", and "Workin' For MCA". Which I think was a good decsision, becasue the songs for "Workin' For MCA" and "Don't Ask Too many questions" Can be found on the Free Brid DVD in the speceial features portion. And The song "Saturday night special" can be found on the band's live from steel town Video. Which is I think is a smart thing to do, because the public need to be exposed to the best band ever created, I mean Steve Gains is one of the world's greatest guitarist and The Van Zant Brothers have the 2 greatest vioces god ever created. And the special features of the Video for the song "Red White & Blue" + the Vischious Cycle store on this DVD Rule. And in the classic skynyrd songs the audio of the old band before the plane crash is subistuted in. And Live from Tennisee the number one southern state the reunited band made an amazing come back. This could quite possiblty be one of the band's greatest shows.
If I were to produce this DVD The only extra I would add is a live preformance of the song "Deadman's Theme", because that song isn't featured on any skynyrd tapes or DVD to my knollege and + it is a great song.

Ya' got three of Southern Rocks best guitarist (Rossington, Medlocke & Thomasson), spirited vocals from Johnny Van Zant (he can sing like a mutha & ain't in nobody's shadow), one of rock best drummers (ex-Damn Yankee, Ted Nugent band drummer Michael Cartellone), a back catalogue of great songs, and the infused spirit of brothers Ronnie, Allen, Steve & Leon to give the band a major league, Southern fried hard rockin' kick in the @ss. The songs are performed flawlessly with supercharged energy & emotion. The sound and camera work are first class. And like I said before, the triple guitar attack needs to be seen and heard to be believed (Ronnie knows his mules are back in town, "pretty boy included"!!). Absolutely no one who has ever been, still is or will be a Skynyrd fan should pass on this dvd. 10 stars if I could; it's that good!

I was there at the AmSouth Amphitheatre in Nashville on a hot Friday July night and the boys were absolutely smokin'from start to finish! One of the longest sets by the band I have ever witnessed and also one of the most diverse and entertaining. Skynyrd is a band that has been through ups and downs that would have stopped lesser bands long ago but they just keep coming back bigger, badder, and stronger year after year and this DVD is proof that you don't need MTV,VH1,or the hit record machine to be a big draw. 30,000 fans gathered to pay tribute to one of music's best but under-rated bands at a red-hot show captured on video, so if you could not be there grab this DVD and you'll feel as if you were there. If you are not a Skynyrd fan you will be when it's over!!!