Search - Getting the Knack on DVD

Gotta get GETTING THE KNACK

Joseph E. Royland | Gorham, ME USA | 10/01/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This DVD is a must own for any Knack fan. The main program is much like an extended episode of VH1's "Behind The Music". A fact filled disc that covers the band's rise to fame, fall, and eventual re-birth. In depth looks behind the making of each Knack album - although more time could have been spent on later works. Lots of live and promo clips of the band throughout thier career are included, too. Interveiw segments with all band memebers, record producers and label exces, and many of their contemporaries.
Even as a longtime fan of the band, watching this, there was much I found out I never knew about them before - but I won't spoil any of it for you.
Lastly, it serves as a great confirmation of what I've always known - The Knack's "Get The Knack" is one of the greatest power pop records EVER made, and the band are truly talented musicians, perhaps even ahead of their time."

Pretty darn good

S. R. | 06/25/2005

(3 out of 5 stars)

""getting the Knack" tells you everything you need to know about those magical months when The Knack ruled the airwaves. These guys were litterally everywhere in 1978--80. And it's no wonder the band's first album is as good as power pop ever got. Feiger's head expands to gigantic proportions as the band's popularity increases. And for good reason, the first album was REALLY that good, and Feiger was, for the most part, the main reason. There's lots of nice amateaur video footage, and plenty of television footage of the band at various points during their ride. There is also plenty of first hand discussion from band members and insiders too. All in all it's much better than expected considering the band's image, today, is barely a blip on the radar."

Been there, done that, and bought the t-shirt.

P. Betts | Austin, Texas United States | 10/10/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I remember the very first time I heard "My Sharona." High school parking lot, 1979, rainy Texas afternoon. All the sudden my best friend cranked up the AM radio in his powder-blue Chevy Malibu - "you gotta' check out this song!" My ears were filled with one of the most infectious choruses ever written, and a guitar solo that blew my mind. I would eventually wear out an 8-track copy of "Get The Knack," buy the cassette, and later, the compact disc version.
I also remember the backlash against the Knack. "The Knack make me knautious," wrote one reader to "Rolling Stone" magazine. When you watch this DVD, you find out why the Knack rose and fell so quickly. A fabulous insight to the beginnings of the band, with most emphasis placed on the "Get The Knack" era in celebration of the 25th anniversary of release. Great interviews with the band, producers, friends, fans, famous fans, and of course, Sharona herself, who was the object of many more Knack songs. Live shots, videos, studio footage, bonus features - all done very well.
I was sad to learn how bad management hurt the band so bad. The Knack, on the advice of their manager, snubbed the Grammy Awards and turned down appearances on "American Bandstand" and "Saturday Night Live." Also, releasing their second album only six months after the first set the band up for overexposure and burnout. Enter egos, drugs, dissolving relationships, and a press just waiting to "knuke the knack." Comparisons to the Beatles further turned many against the band, as well as some of the downright filthy lyrics.
Rome wasn't built in a day, but the Knack recorded "Get The Knack" in 11 days. They played live for the recording, and each song was completed in no more than two takes. "Good Girls Don't" was recorded in one take. This alone illustrates the talent of the band. Bruce Gary is a monster on the drums (listen to him play "Let Me Out" by himself on the DVD), and Prescott Niles laid down some killer bass lines. Berton Averre is an undermentioned guitar genius - original, melodic, tasteful, and the guy can burn. Add frontman Doug Fieger's voice, popster songwriting, and cocky attitude ("Is it hot in here or is just my career?") and it's no wonder "Get The Knack" became one of the fastest selling albums of all time. Plus, from the interviews of the band, you can tell these guys are just down to earth, intelligent, fine musicians with a love of playing music.
I love this DVD. My only complaint is the little time devoted to post "Get The Knack" material, and you're only shown bits and pieces of great performances. I know the focus was on the first album and the anniversary - maybe a more complete DVD will be offered in the future. No question, I will "get it," as well. 4.5 stars."

Superb...

PDS | 01/22/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Great DVD, excellent content and production.
Lots of video I've never seen, lots of stuff I didnt know, lots of Bruce Gary too.
I love how they authored this DVD, great videos, menus and sound, amazing.

I love The Knack and Sharona too!"