Search - Blur: Starshaped on DVD

Their best period now on DVD

Michael Topper | Pacific Palisades, California United States | 11/24/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The period documented by this newly refurbished DVD re-release of "Starshaped"--roughly 1991-93--was without a doubt one of the highlights in the history of this now-venerable UK act. Fresh from their initial flush of success, but before they became ubiquitous superstars, "Starshaped" features some spirited live performances and backstage footage that offers a more intimate look at the group than their Best Of collection of videos. The camera focuses most naturally on frontman Albarn, although time is also given to Graham Coxton's quirky and likeable personality, as he cheerily complains of headaches, dehydration and the effects of being on sedatives.

Some fine footage of "Colin Zeal, "Popscene", "For Tomorrow" and "Day After Day" garnish the original video, now with added
concert footage from Kilburn and the Princess Charlotte in '91.
The band is in transition from its earlier, trancy, Stone Roses-influenced sound to the Kink-esque form of "Modern Life Is Rubbish", but it all sounds like excellent guitar-pop with
a heavy psychedelic rush, loving social comment and and topped by Albarn's signature vocal style. He certainly doesn't lack energy throughout, and frequently gets himself into trouble with his on-stage shenanigans (ie when the PA falls on his foot), giving the film at times a Spinal Tap quality (they even visit Stonehenge), although it's all with tongue well in cheek. Blur were probably at their most likeable at this stage, an up-and coming group who would conquer the UK in only a year's time from the release of "Starshaped", a document which certainly gives ample enough justification for their rise and whose US release is now very welcome."

Blur before

cdo808 | pacifica california | 10/15/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"finally, the dvd that documents an early blur. previously available only on vhs, Starshaped follows blur through european festivals and pre Great Escape period, though i've only seen the vhs tape purchased in Japan, i remember the Stonehenge moments, the P.A. falling on damon's foot and the hilarious comments of graham following the rocker's (goth) "interview" after a show, a great "For Tomorrow" clip."

A must have

Pen Name? | 10/30/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've had no problems with the sound on my dvd. The film itself is a great tour documentary of the band in what I'd consider it's most creative, and volatile period. They were very drunk back then too, which shows. but the live performances are killer and the behind the scenes footage is very entertaining. Plus the dvd version is expanded with a full concert from Kilburn that sounds excellent and very hi-fi, with a great setlist. Plus there are four tracks from a camcorder of a very very early blur performance that is just in shambles, but still a whole lot of fun, and the sound on that is quite good considering the very lo-fi source.

This is can't miss stuff for any blur fan. Especially for the full concert that is included here. That's worth the admission price alone."