Search - Jammin With the Blues Greats on DVD

The Truth Hurts!

frinky | 10/31/2000

(2 out of 5 stars)

"First, let me state that I am a blues musician, so I might be a little harsh on my review. That said, I bought this video because of Etta, Albert, Junior, and Buddy. I can definitely say that without these illustrious performers, this video would be zero stars. The Bluesbreakers lived up to their name, sounding like a band on its first night out. I would have been embarrassed to be onstage with them, even though they are great musicians in their own right. The worst part was watching John Mayall squirm around like he was setting the place on fire, when in actuality, he was playing some modest licks at best. In whole, the band couldn't start or stop together, and their job of backing up some of the Blues legends was terrible. Buy it used, if at all!"

Well, it's a little better than that.

frinky | Chicago, IL USA | 12/03/2000

(3 out of 5 stars)

"First off, let me say I am also a blues musician, so I do have some idea of what I'm talking about. I would agree with the previous reviewer that the Bluesbreakers are definitely not a highlight of this film. John Mayall does seem very pompous though he never does anything special. But, I think the rhythm section was at least adequate and Mick Taylor puts in some fine playing. Albert King is definitely the highlight here, he's in great form. The giant of a man sings with a lot of soul and plays with a lot of passion. Etta seems a bit off on Baby What You Want Me To Do. Junior Wells slubs a few lines but otherwise he's in great form (his harp is excellent). Buddy Guy seems a bit off too, his guitar isn't quite as stinging as usual. Sippie Wallace is great, she really has conviction and puts it across exceptionally at her age. I would advise you to buy this, I've gotten a lot of pleasure out of it."

Uninspired, pedestrian and anemic

E. Monroe | Japan | 03/13/2001

(1 out of 5 stars)

"As a musician, I can honestly state that the I'd place the caliber of the performance of John Mayall's back-up musicians right up there with what you can find any weeknight at your nearest open mic. While the other name artists on this DVD do their level-best to elevate the lukewarm atmosphere of this concert, it just isn't enough.The selection of only the most well-known standards, shoved into uninspired and (obviously) un-arranged/unrehearsed performances results in a sloppy, stumbling and sophomoric product."