May 31, 2005

Smile

In a previous post, I looked forward to seeing Brian Wilson perform Smile at Carnegie Hall. I promised to report back.

Is eight months later a timely report? The two concerts exceeded all of my expectations. As a performer, Brian Wilson is not exactly in the Michael Jackson school of showmanship. But this long-delayed music seized the day. The band (including the wonderful Stockholm Strings and Horns) were magnificent.

Now you can see for yourself. Rhino Home Video has just released a two-disk DVD set, which includes the Showtime documentary, Beautiful Dreamer and a live performance of Smile. Brian and gang are in great form.

Even the bonus material is wonderful, especially an interview/conversation between Brian and his collaborator on Smile, Van Dyke Parks.

Amazon is selling the set for $22.95. It's money well spent.