Search - Dar Williams: Live at Bearsville Theater on DVD

Better Than What I Expected

A. Landers | 01/02/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I must admit that I expected a low quality production(I've seen it from too many dvd concerts I guess, some look like a home video) but I'm happy to say that I was pleased with this purchase. If you like the setlist, I don't see why you wouldn't like the dvd.

Quality - the video and sound quality are decent, there are no super-annoying shakey camera moves, and the lighting is good. I don't own a widescreen tv, so I don't know if they stretch the image. They could have used a couple more camera angles, but again, it's still better than what I expected.

The first few songs are Dar solo, but the band does eventually come out, starting with "As Cool As I Am". I happen to prefer Dar with the band (their sound doesn't overpower hers) but that's just a matter of musical preference.

It's just a nice, typical Dar Williams concert, folks: pleasant and simple. I haven't gone to too many shows, but I think it does capture the essence of what her shows are like. If that was her goal with this dvd, then mission accomplished. (Yes, it does include her characteristic in-between song banter, which I happen to enjoy!)

I don't know if people were expecting something super flashy - she doesn't SEEM to be the sequin type - but this is a good, solid addition to any fan's collection."

Good Show, But Where's "My Better Self"?

John G. | Chicago | 01/08/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"As big a Dar fan as I am, I still can't give the DVD 5 stars. It's definitely a worthwhile purchase, but Dar seemed a little stiff. I've seen her live twice, and both shows have been better and looser than what you see here. And the lack of any songs from the brilliant "My Better Self" was puzzling. However, I liked the new song, "The Easy Way", and am looking forward to another Dar CD.
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