Search - John Wetton - Live in the Underworld on DVD

John Wetton is a genious, DVD is great for fans, but not cas

Chris X. Moloney | Newport Coast/Newport Beach, CA (Formerly St. Loui | 09/15/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"John Wetton is one of the finest musicians of our times. His unique voice propelled Asia to sell 15 million records in the 80s and 90s. John's prior bands Roxy Music, UK, King Crimpson, etc. had many strong rock recordings, however, John has yet to become a superstar as a solo artist. During Asia's big era, he was an icon of dedicated, progressive arena rock music mastery. This DVD shows some of that, but it's recorded in a small "standing room" concert venue and feels crowded for the type of music he performs. Sound is very good, picture is clear but often strangely lit. John's band is comfortable and strong. His voice on this concert is good, but not great. There are times his voice is clearly not as strong as it used to be. If you're a big John Wetton fan, you will enjoy this, but it's not compelling enough for the casual listener. Consider Amorata the live DVD--it's stronger. Also, there's a great live CD called Akustika. John's acoustic, slow version of Heat of the Moment is amazing, but you'll need to get it elsewhere as this DVD contains the original rock version. Consider too the live ASIA DVD with John Wetton on the "Classic Rock Legends" series."