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Essential live footage from funky Aussies...
I was never a big INXS fan, although like a lot of people The Greatest Hits
is dusted down every blue moon or so. So I came to this 1991 Wembley Stadium appearance with an open mind.
At the time INXS were riding the crest of their commercial success that
started with the Listen Like Thieves (1985), Kick (1987) and X (1990)
albums. Live Baby Live catches them at the moment before that wave broke
and they crashed back into the surf.
The DVD opens with a thunderous drumbeat, the cameras panning the expectant
crowd. The band file on from side stage and kick in. Wow. Then
Michael Hutchence bounces on and from that point in, there's only one star
of the show. It's clearly Michael Hutchence's 'trip' - he commands the
stage like a modern day Jagger, his delivery not dissimilar in style - a
stage natural.
The band are rock solid throughout although at times you get the feeling
they would have been just as happy playing in a little bar in Oz. But not
Hutchence - he is the vocal and focal point - and he revels in it.
The set list includes all the hits - What You Need, Need You Tonight, New
Sensation, Never Tear Us Apart, Mystify, Suicide Blonde, Disappear and Devil
Inside amongst the 21 track set list. The highlight for me? A particularly
funky Who Pays The Price featuring a wonderfully loose groove and some
searing blues harmonica from Andrew Farriss. Worth the entrance price
alone! My only criticism is that the set list tends to be a bit one paced in
places. But if you ever went to see INXS or own any of their albums, then
this is a must have.
On the technical front, the picture quality is excellent - having been
filmed on 16 35mm cameras and the sound quality is awesome - wind the volume
up, dim the lights, ask a few sweaty friends to bring some lagers round, and
you're rocking along with the rest of the 72,000 crowd. There's plenty of
extras as well - 'never before seen' band interviews, backstage footage and
more. The bonus track 'Lately' is a beautiful visual and sonic homage to
Hutchence.
You may have the same titled double album somewhere in your collection - if
you do, buy this DVD. And even if you don't, it's still a fitting tribute
to one of the better vocalists and showmen of his generation. Rest in
peace Michael Hutchence.
****
Review by Pete Whalley
© 2003 All rights reserved.
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