Search - Steve Hillage: Germany 77 on DVD

An enjoyable piece of prog-rock history

Singslinger | Singapore | 05/05/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Steve Hillage is one of music's most under-rated yet talented guitarists. His work in the 1970s helped lay the foundations for progressive rock as it stands today and as is practised by bands like Dream Theater, Shadow Gallery and Fates Warning. Much of his work has lapsed into obscurity and so it is timely that all his albums have been remastered and reissued so as to enable his music to reach a wider audience. Probably his most famous albums were "L" and "Fish Rising'' and this concert at Germany's Rockpalast showcases most of the tracks from these records. There are long, intricate passages for viewers to appreciate Hillage's guitar playing on a battered but nonetheless beautiful Gibson Les Paul Custom during which he typically jams with the keyboard section. (He switches to a Fender Strat midway through the concert when he bursts a string on his Les Paul but it's only for one track). The music is uniquely psychedelic and very much in tune with the late 60s and early 70s. And there's the bonus of a 2007 interview with him and his French co-composer and keyboardist Miquette Giraudy. Highly recommended for fans of prog and 70s rock."

Great to Finally See This

Powerstance | 03/17/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I missed the Steve Hillage live performances in the 70's. After hearing "Fish Rising", I sought out his other recordings he made back then, but never got the chance to see it in person. This is a well made video of Steve's blazing guitar with his "L" band in front of an austere German TV audience. He was a bit too much of a true believer to achieve much commercial success, but made some great music that is captured on this DVD. Some highlights include his versions of Hurdy Gurdy Man, All Too Much, and Not Fade Away. The originals include the Lunar and Solar Musik suites, Electric Gypsys (very jazzy); Hurdy Gurdy Glissando, Salmon Song and Afterglid. Its all beautiful and spacy and every solo is a gem. The band itself is good - I especially enjoyed Clive Bunkers' drumming and Miquettes bell playing! Thanks to the folks that finally put this together. As the Fleshtones said, "..something that will never be back".."

Terrific player

bosco | 03/15/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Steve Hillage was one of the most underrated guitarists of the 70's.He has a definitive guitar style and he's quite a fluid player.Picture quality is good and the audio ,though not 5.1 surround DTS,is adequate.Just to have these vintage performances available is something to be grateful for.Get them before they disappear forever."