Search - The Old Grey Whistle Test Collection on DVD

BEWARE - This inferior version misrepresents itself

Duddley Serious | Great White North | 12/08/2006

(2 out of 5 stars)

"Despite being called The Complete Collection this set is 110 minutes shorter than the product of the same name sold by the BBC in the UK. Not only that but Volume One should be spread over 2 discs as in the UK but here 190 minutes are crammed on to 1 disc to save them a few pennies while delivering over-compressed video to the paying customer.

Read the reviews for Volume Three to discover some of the fine acts that aren't included here but should be.

Of course, I can't give it just 1 star because many of the performances are awesome and worthwhile."

Old Tin Whistle Test

Michael Perkes | Salt Lake City, UT | 10/29/2008

(2 out of 5 stars)

"Many years ago I saw this BBC program on PBS. Only a few episodes of OGWT were broadcasts in my area. I bought this set on the anticipation from reviews from Guitar Player Magazine and rekindled my interest.

Though starts off great with vintage Alice Cooper, Elton John and Rory Gallagher, the disc quickly got bogged down in long lengthly interviews with the producers. Please beware that their is are apparently two versions? The set I purchased did not include BeBop Deluxe and Thin Lizzy as reviewed in GP? The rare footage of Bill Nelson's '70's band still eludes me. Also as disappointing was Thin Lizzy with a young Gary Moore?? The second disc start menu was corrupted and extras like artist interviews could not be selected, A real shame.

It is not all bad, great rare footage of Montrose and early Sammy Hagar, Johnny Winter, The Who and Supertramp.You just have to fast forward relentless boring producer interviews. Not being a big fan of punk, I quickly passed on those cuts. I have to say Roxy Music and U2 a great look back at New Wave.

Good idea, needed better editing to keep your interest. I would love to see box sets of the Don Kirshner's Rock Concert or the King Biscuit Flower Hour (radio). If someone could unearth the all the footage of 1974 Califorina Jam, I think there would be a lot of interest."