The DVD features selected performances from the band's two reunion shows of 2007. An intimate acoustic show was recorded in the living room of Pashman's house, in front of a handful of special guests, and an electric concert was filmed at the NJ Proghouse, which is currently housed in the historical Old Franklin Schoolhouse in Metuchen, New Jersey. The performances jump back and forth between each show, and behind-the-scenes and interview footage is interspersed between each of the songs.
Anyone who is familiar with this site will already know that I typically despise this type of editing format for a concert DVD, but considering the events leading up to this video, it was almost a requirement. A separate option to play just the songs should always be provided though, so that you don't have to continuously skip over the interview stuff during repeat viewings - and I'll assume that the band wants repeat viewings from their fans and customers.
The DVD begins with the band being introduced by NJ Proghouse owner (I assume) James Robinson, who is also apparently the twin brother of Hurley from Lost, and this is followed by some tongue-in-cheek intro music featuring Peaches & Herb's "Reunited". More of the band's sense of humor is revealed throughout the rest of the DVD as well. The first song, "Top Secret", is certainly one of the more intense and proggy songs on the DVD, and it reminded me a little of King Crimson. From there, we head over to Mr. Pashman's home for the first acoustic performance of the night, "Black Orchid". I knew I might be in for something special when half-way through the song their ten foot tall drummer breaks into this gorgeous flute solo. Now we're talking.
3RDegree's unique sound can probably be most attributed to the superb vocal stylings of George Dobbs, who sounds like cross between a young Peter Gabriel and Graham Nash. He can also toss out some pretty mean snarls whenever the song requires. The band's diversely styled music reminds me of everything from Echolyn and CSN, to Gentle Giant and King Crimson.
Nearly every track on this DVD is a compelling listen, but a couple of my favorites were "Apophenia" and "Cautionary Tale", which are two of the standout tracks from Narrow-Caster. Nearly every song by these guys has a catchy chorus, melody, or riff that immediately infects you on the very first listen, but the diversity of styles also makes it something you can listen to repeatedly without ever getting bored.
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