Customer Reviews

Yardbirds

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

 

 

This looks like a straight transfer from a VHS tape that was released in the early 90's, and evidently Rhino did nothing as far as remastering either the video and audio, and that is very disappointing. Most of the video clips are grainy and of terrible quality. Seems Rhino could have put in a little effort and found better segments. Overall, it's a pretty good, if brief, history of how the Yardbirds came together, but little care went into video/audio quality. From now on, it'll make me wary of any future documentaries of this type from Rhino, who normally excel at music CD remasters, but have greatly disappointed me in their DVD music documentaries.

Thought/hoped this would be a collection of footage from various TV programs. It was, but only in part. It's a documentary, mostly interviews of all the former members (except the late Keith Relf). Lots of good footage, I suppose, and not as big a RIP as "Cream -- Farewell Concert", but disapppointing still. Could've had the complete performances, sound-stage, lip-synced, whatever, notwithstanding, with the interviews and all as an adjunct or separate channel (it is, afterall, supposed to be a DVD.)

I bought this because I am in awe of Jeff Beck. This has plenty of recent Beck interviews, as well as J Page. That alone made this worthwhile for me.

In addition, there are fairly complete live performances of some of the Yardbirds' greatest hits. The documentary narrative cuts into some of them, but some are played in their entirety and most important pieces are represented. There are clips of what must be a 12 year old Eric Clapton!

A must have for all students of how rock was born!

The Yardbirds are remembered, by some, as the musical group which produced Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page. However, it was Keith Relf who founded the group and led its direction. His writing, singing and harmonica playing fostered and encouraged the direction of the group.

The DVD "The Yardbirds" is NOT a mere black-and-white documentary of the group's history. It has many color parts which feature actual, on-camera narration by the groups members, producers, etc., which make it VERY up-to-date and informative. The music is absoultely wonderful too.

Don't miss the live performance of "The Train Kept a'Rollin'" which is about half way through the video. When you see and hear this you will know that Keith Relf was the energetic leader of the group. Notice how he "works" the audience also. He WAS the Yardbirds !!!

This is a truly great and historical video of, perhaps, the greatest blues-rock band the world has ever seen. If you love Clapton, Beck and Page you need to own this video to understand how it all started.

David Fox

I was so disappointed bought it in a local store for my husband for Xmas who is a big Yardbirds fan and didn't read the reviews in here which I always do.... SHAME ON ME! The interviews were very good, however, the music was terrible ... the sound quality poor. Probably never watch this one again.