Walter Trout's first live DVD, appropriately titled "Live & Kickin", is a good representation of his live show. If you haven't witnessed Walters live show, you should at your very first opportunity. Walter's live show is full of energy and rockin' blues guitar as attested to by the applause and screaming appreciation of several thousand blues fans at the Tampa Bay Blues Fest held last weekend. I would certainly not want to follow his act at any show.
This DVD opens with 'Got A Broken Heart' which I first heard of via a song clip included on a CD attached to an English guitar magazine some time back. "Got A Broken Heart" is one of those rare songs that makes you stop everything you are doing and say "I've got to know who that is!" Six other songs are included on the DVD, including 'Marie's Mood' which Walter wrote for his wife while she was pregnant with their son. 'Marie's Mood' is a beautiful instrumental which provides an excellent counterpoint to Walters intense playing and demonstrates the range of his skill and talent. Most of the songs are of the blues/rock vein and are generally pretty up-tempo. If you are a guitar freak...then this is your DVD as there is enough pyrotechnics for most guitar lovers. Walter also sings quite well and as such can deliver the entire package for a wonderful and amazing performance.
The DVD provides a good close look at Walters playing technique, which relies on his skill with the guitar, rather than on a bunch of guitar effects. Walter plugs straight into his Mesa Boogie amp with nothing between his guitar and amp except the chord. Through manipulation of his volume and tone controls, he pulls a wide range of sounds from his guitar, from violin sounds and delicate blues riffs to licks that range from "stun" to "killer" with the occasional quote from 'Rhapsody in Blue' or various pieces of classical music.
The Bottom line: If you haven't heard of or checked out Walter Trout, do so as soon as possible. This guy is one powerful performer and as I've said previously, this guy is America's greatest secret. If you've heard and/or seen Walter Trout, then you will really enjoy this DVD, which will allow you to enjoy him while you are waiting for him to tour in your area. This DVD is not leaving my collection!!!
Approx. 48 minutes
Walter Trout - guitars, vocals
Jimmy Trapp - bass guitar
Paul Kallestad - B-3 Organ
Bernard Pershey - drums & percussion
Official Web site: http://www.waltertroutband.com
Fan e-mail: WTBfanCLUB@waltertroutband.com
Available through CDNow.com or your local video store
This review is copyright © 2000 by Robert Murphy, and Blues On Stage, all rights reserved. Copy, duplication or download prohibited without written permission. For permission to use this review please send an E-mail to Ray Stiles.
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