Search - Lara Fabian - Live on DVD

C'est magnifique!

sand-da-man | Chicago, IL United States | 03/15/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If there is anyone disappointed because Lara Fabian doesn't do any of her English songs here, then perhaps they should move on. Mme. Fabian is at her best when she's singing in French, and this footage (shot in Belgium and Paris venues) is superb.

A fan of her recordings for several years now, I was a little apprehensive about obtaining this DVD, not knowing what would be revealed by her live performance: would she have a quirky mannerism, a less-than-excellent pitch, an unattractive presence? All of these concerns were quickly dashed, however, when, in the first frame, Lara settles on stage and accompanies herself on solo piano. From that point on, the concert provides both musical and emotional magic. Lara's intonation is precise and her timing flawless. Add to that- she even moves gracefully. Her tender, sincere rapport with the audience, reflecting a phenomenal charisma, provides an apt complement to the incomparable voice I already knew she had. She is supported here by an accomplished rhythm section (notice in particular Rejean Lachance on guitar) and two very polished back-up vocalists. Pierre Grimaud steadies the ensemble on piano. Rick Allison, her one-time fiancé and long-time writing collaborator, also joins her in a duet on "Tu es mon autre."

For those who seem to care, there actually is one song performed in English- a cover of the Toto song "Africa"- done in a medley with Lara's composition "Rio" (-she also sings another selection in Italian). Lara augments the concert with her three-song encore, changing into a sexy evening gown which makes her appear even more stunningly beautiful. From beginnning to end, the pace is fresh and enjoyable, while her voice is like that of an angel!

In addition to the concert, a second disc includes some interesting rehearsal and back stage clips- insights into Lara the person.

If I have any criticism of this package, it is that the film editors toyed with it too much. For the life of me, I don't understand why they found it necessary to include slow motion and pause shots of Lara as she is singing. You would think they'd realize that merely recording what occurred, which they otherwise do rather well, is more appealing. That slight objection aside, the DVD is still worth its weight in gold, and one that I highly recommend. If you're not fluent in French, as I am not, believe me, it won't matter. In the end, it is her music and voice that carry the moment, and like all great entertainers, she is even better live!!"

Live Energetic Excellence

Coenraad de Beer | South Africa | 03/29/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Lara is one of the best performers I've ever seen when it comes to live shows. She simply has the crowd at her feet and they enjoy every minute of it. You will hear the crowd constantly singing along with Lara during the whole show. One thing that makes Lara's live shows so special is the fact that she puts her fans in the spotlight and moves herself to the background. This DVD proves it when the crowd enthusiastically sings Je T'aime, so that Lara breaks into tears of amazement and you get goosebumps all over your body. This show also includes Lara's cover of Africa by Toto (brilliantly done together with percussionist and background vocalist Dorian Sherwood). The show was recorded during her Nue tour, so you can expect a lot of her Nue songs on this show. A true highlight is when Lara walks through the crowd, surrounded by bodyguards, singing La Difference. It is also nice how she transformed Humana during this show, absolutely wonderful. The background vocalists, pianists, drummers, guitarists, to be honest the whole band simply lifts Lara's music to new heights during this show, but she acknowledges this by putting each member of the band into the spotlight during the show, which illustrates Lara's humble and beautiful personality. Each member of the band is truly gifted and makes the show one great pleasure to watch. Believe me this live performance will leave you breathless and after the 135 minutes you will be begging for more."

The Best

Coenraad de Beer | 12/24/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I don't speak French but I love this dvd and I am deeply moved every time I watch it."