Review of George Thorogood And The Destroyers: Live In `99

Introduction

"Bu-bu-bu-Bad. Bad to the bone."

George Thorogood has been very popular on rock radio in the US for 20-odd years but has never really captured the attention of the UK public. This is a shame, because Thorogood and his band "The Delaware Destroyers" create a no BS blend of rock and boogie and blues; a blend which possibly reached its peak with "Bad to the Bone", a track which has made many movie and TV appearances, most memorably in T2. This is what most UK listeners will know Thorogood for. But, there is much more good stuff than that in Thorogood`s 15 album back catalogue.

This concert video, filmed at the Fox Theatre in St. Louis, features some of Thorogood`s best known material and should be a good introduction to his intoxicating sound, as well as satisfying the fans.

Video

Video is presented as Full Frame 1.33:1 and, aside from the lack of Anamorphic widescreen, there is nothing to complain about. The video does a good job of capturing the feel of the venue and giving you a sense of occasion.

Technically, blacks are black, colours are rich and the image is sufficiently detailed to allow you to see every bead of sweat on George`s face. Sometimes the potential clarity of DVD is a dubious benefit.

Audio

Audio comes in DD 2.0 and 5.1 mixes and both are, unfortunately, poor. The mix is vague and muddled, leaving no detail at the top end and a limp bass. Drums and percussion are all but inaudible. George`s guitar and vocals, and the occasional sax break, manage to pierce the suffocating mix but little else.

This is a travesty because the performance is very good - as far as I can tell. The band is tight, providing a rocking accompaniment to George`s vigorous performance of a selection of classics and covers. Standout tracks are "One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer" and "Bad to The Bone" but all are worthy. The performance was so involving that I soon forgot about the lacklustre sound and was duck walking around the living room. This doesn`t excuse the poor sound, though. Both performer and listener deserve better.

Features

Extras are pretty slender being mostly text based. Two of note are a fascinating interview with George himself and a sample track from the "Half a Man, Half a Boy". George comes across as being personable and down to earth, being refreshingly candid about his limitations as an artist.

Conclusion

Thorogood isn`t an original. He cheerfully steals from a range of artists including, Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley, The Rolling Stones and Elvis. While the music may be derivative, his energetic performances lift the material to the extent that he can stand side by side with his influences.

The performances captured on this live DVD are as good as any in his career and make for a potentially invigorating experience. However, this potential is dashed by an unbelievably poor sound mix. Avoid unless you think you can live with this failing.