If there is a tarnish to the recording, it's only because of the presence of an even better live recording. Recorded during the same tour, yet towards the end, the audio release of London 1986 is the benchmark for Talk Talk performances, and perhaps even live albums in general. It features a smaller set of songs from this show (and notably also in the same order) but are flawlessly performed. Live At Montreux 1986, however, showcases a more complete set of material and so wins the completist merit badge. But if you are able to find a copy of the increasingly rare London recording, do yourself the favor.
Video and audio for this DVD release are remarkably clean. Presented in standard-def 4:3, the video looks great, minus the 80s fashion faux pas. It's filmed multi-camera in a small venue, and although it won't win any editing awards, it's ably put together, giving a very natural feel to the show. The audio is also very well done. There are surround versions, but to be honest they are only marginally up-mixed. However, the sound overall is very good for a twenty year old festival video. The packaging also contains a small, but nice booklet containing more photos from the performance, as well as the festival poster for that year, featuring the iconic artwork of Keith Haring (which is also used as the stage backdrop for the show).
This DVD is an absolute no-brainer for fans of the group, as well as both 80s and general music fans. It's a rare (and the only) live performance from a truly original band giving an impressive show.
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