The production value of this DVD is top notch, which makes me wonder why they didn't release it separately a few years ago. They could have added some good bonus material to make up for the short running time. The Dolby Digital 5.1 surround mix is so crisp and well balanced that it sounds like the band is playing right in front of you. The picture looks superb and the camera work places you right in the front row. There were no bonus features, but hey, this DVD was the bonus feature.
If you have ever considered Godsmack's music to be just a little too heavy and rough around the edges for your taste, then I encourage you to give this DVD a try. My wife used to fall into that category - I couldn't get her to sit through half of the band's Changes DVD if my life had depended on it - but she absolutely loved this new unplugged DVD. Then again, you will still have to buy the new greatest hits CD to get it. But, it's well worth it.
Set List
01. Trippin'
02. Re-Align
03. Running Blind
04. Serenity
05. Voodoo
06. Spiral
07. Keep Away
08. Touche
09. Reefer Headed Woman
Ratings:
Performance 8/10
Production 9/10
Article comments
1 - Charlie
I used to be such a big fan of these guys, then every so-called "nu metal" band came out to dilute the genre, and Godsmack kept doing pretty much the same thing over and over again so I stopped following them. I never really got into their acoustic album (The Other Side) from a few years ago either.
I was actually thinking of buying this Greatest Hits package when it first came out, but wasn't sure if it was worth the money. After reading this review though, you've successfully convinced me to finally buy a Godsmack release again (mostly for the DVD).
Very nice review - had no idea about the Lee Richards story of why he left Godsmack. Can't wait to see what he looks and sounds like with his old bandmates.
2 - Paul Roy
Thanks Charlie. I've never really liked Godsmack enough to buy all of their individual albums, so the Greatest Hits CD was perfect for me. They are a great band to see live too.
3 - Brian aka Guppusmaximus
*Beware: A factual accusation from a ex-Godsmack fan/detractor*
Ofcourse, this DVD would have an Alice in Chains vibe to it because they used to be an AIC cover band. For shite's sake, "Godsmack" is the name of an AIC song. Their earlier work, which led them to fame, is a poor rip off(though I liked it)of said material & without AIC, Godsmack would not exist.
"I've never really liked Godsmack enough to buy all of their individual albums..."
So, how can you take a stand against the people who understand the enormous influence that AIC had on Godsmack?
After you have listened to Godsmack's 1st release along with AIC's Facelift & Dirt then I will tell you how Down in a Hole created Staind's opening for fame.
4 - Paul Roy
Brian, I think you read a little too much into what I was saying about Godsmack detractors. I never meant to take a stand against them. I happen to agree with everything you just said. AIC were obviously a heavy influence, but I still enjoy much that Godsmack has to offer.
5 - Brian aka Guppusmaximus
This performance has a very Alice In Chains Unplugged kind of vibe to it, which will probably lead to more "rip-off" accusations from all of the Godsmack detractors out there.
Dude, that's what you said.. No need to read too deep into anything. It's plain to see.
My point was this: Godsmack made their fortune off of the backs of AIC. It's just a plain 'ol fact!
6 - Paul Roy
Brian, my point to you was that I was not saying that the "rip-off" accusations are invalid. You can certainly make that case. However, you can also make that same case for just about every band that came out since the 70's. Few, if any bands, are completely original and cannot be accused of ripping of someone who came before them.
7 - Brian aka Guppusmaximus
Really, I don't believe that & it's not as blatant as Godsmack. What other bands used a song name from the band they are ripping as their moniker??
8 - Green Jello
I really think all this Staind, Creed, Godsmack, Puddle of Mudd nonsense is just embarrassing. AIC and it's peers in the 90's were actual musicians, not these clowns. It's all corporate and lacking any REAL balls. If you can't see that, listen again till you do.
9 - Hank Hill
Godsmack made their fortune off of the backs of AIC. It's just a plain 'ol fact!
I know, every time I saw Layne and Jerry driving the tour buses and staying up late helping on the road I just shook my head.
Get a clue. Godsmack has worked hard to be where they are at and I certainly am not going to attack them for that. I like them, you don't, fine, listen to something else then. Because you obviously don't intend to watch or listen to this DVD.
And they are all better than the pop trash that goes for mainstream music on MTV and the like.