Search - The Mamas & The Papas - California Dreamin' on DVD

Absolutely Wonderful

C. W. Emblom | Ishpeming, Michigan USA | 07/01/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This DVD rates a strong five stars with me. The hit songs are all here, the voices are superb, and comments throughout the one hour program about each individual are provided between songs. Although I remember when these songs first became popular I realize there are other reviewers who may be more knowledgable about The Mamas & The Papas in analyzing this program than I am. However, at least for me, the songs that we all remember and enjoy are here with comments regarding the songs and each of the singers. This was a one hour program that I sat through with my eyes riveted to the screen thoroughly enjoying every minute. I'm thankful for this DVD and so should anyone else who remembers this wonderful singing group."

Enjoyable, but far from perfect

Emilio Dreyer Pacheco | Porto Alegre, Brazil | 06/10/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"First, let me make it clear that this DVD is mandatory for any fan of The Mamas and The Papas for the musical footage it contains. As a documentary, though, it is disappointing. It tells the group's story rather superficially and looks more like a tribute to Mama Cass. It is only one hour long and ends after Cass's death. The previously released "Straight Shooter" faced some criticism for including too much interview footage and not enough music, but at least it was thorough, in-depth look at the roller coaster ride that was John Phillips' life and career. This new documentary focuses on the music, but still features voiceovers and edited clips, so why didn't they release a collection of videos, instead? "Straight Shooter" seems to be out of print, so maybe they should reissue the unedited version of it and update it in the extras, including a tribute to John Phillips. That would do the group's legacy justice. But don't get me wrong, this new DVD is highly enjoyable, a fitting celebration to the bright side of The Mamas and The Papas and a touching homage to Cass Elliot. And it does feature some footage that is not on "Straight Shooter", including some comments by Cass's daughter Owen."

Mamas and Papas Sing For Their Supper on DVD

Papa J | 03/30/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is a very good DVD, although it varies a bit from the PBS program. No, unfortunately it does not have their performance of "Nowhere Man" from Hullabaloo. I also noticed that in a few performances like "California Dreamin'" and "Monday, Monday" the sound is out of sync with their facial expressions and movements. There also is a part of "California Dreamin" where the Papas' vocals are missing and all you hear are the Mamas. On "Monday, Monday", the vocals are extremely upfront and the musical or instrumental track seems to be drowned out or missing, although part of the song there is an emphasis on strings. There are also vocal parts that appear to be different from the studio versions and from the PBS program. I have to watch my videotape of the PBS show to be sure, but it seems the vocal "I used to live in New York City" from "Twelve-Thirty" is different, and there are slight changes in "I Saw Her Again" and "My Heart Stood Still." However, this DVD truly has a wealth of classic and rare performances that makes it worthwhile. I really enjoyed the early black and white performances, especially "Somebody Groovy" and "Do You Believe In Magic," where the group outshone Barry McGuire's lead vocal. The bonus material of "Sing For Your Supper," "Here in My Arms" and "Make Your Own Kind of Music" features complete performances and brief interviews from Michelle, Denny and Owen Elliot (Cass's daughter). The only other criticism I would make is that not all of the performances are complete - some are edited like "Words of Love" or have band members or other interviewees talking over parts. Most are full-length performances though. This is a must for Mamas and Papas fans - now, if they would only release a live concert DVD from one of their Hollywood Bowl performances! P.S. When you first put the DVD in and you get the main menu, you hear part of "California Dreamin'." If you listen very carefully, you can hear Barry McGuire, who originally recorded the song for his second album. The Mamas & Papas provided backing vocals for Barry and later, when it was decided they were going to record it and release it as a single, Barry's vocal track was erased and Denny's lead vocal inserted."

Mamas & The Papa's / Were as popular as the Beatles

Little Joe | Timbuktoo | 03/07/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've seen many a music DVD in my time but this one stands out as one of the best. Most people are aware of the affair between Michelle and Denny but I sure as heck didn't know until now that Papa John & Denny wrote "I Saw Her Again Last Night" about that affair! This was right from John Philips own lips on this disc. The whole DVD is filled with inside info, home movies and beautiful, quality filmed color performances from different TV shows. I was channel surfing and just happened upon this DVD being shown on a PBS station. It isn't sheduled for release for another couple weeks but I'm ready to pounce on it when it does."