Not that Renaissance were ever really that visual a band to begin with though. As a frontperson, Annie Haslam could never be mistaken for a dynamic performer in the Janis Joplin or Tina Turner mold. In fact, her onstage persona is a lot more like that of a New Age-y sort of fairy princess with her swirling movements and flowing dresses.
But even in glorious black and white, Annie Haslam sounds as amazing as I can remember, especially when hitting those impossibly high notes on songs like "Prologue," "Can You Understand," and "Song Of Scheherezade."
It's just too bad they didn't include her vocal tour de' force on the song "Ashes Are Burning" here. But to see exactly what I'm talking about, you can check out the video below (which is not from this DVD, but rather from a 1983 performance in Chicago).
For Renaissance fans, and for those who can overlook the visual quality here in favor of the historical significance, Song of Scheherezade is something of a must. For the curious, I'd point you toward the re-release of Live At Carnegie Hall.
Article comments
1 - El Bicho
I tapped out before five minutes. Couldn't take her shrieking. Although it would be great to play if I was trying to get people out of my house at the end of a party.
2 - Glen Boyd
You should have stuck around because her vocal range is pretty amazing...I can see where it could be considered a bit of an acquired taste though.
-Glen
3 - MarkSaleski
i was around when they were but somehow managed to hear none of their music. maybe words like "Scheherezade" in the album title set off my anti-prog alarms.
4 - Glen Boyd
Listen to the video I added here Mark. If anyone I know will probably get this, you will. Annie's voice is simply nuts in the best way imaginable.
5 - Barry McKillop
I just bought their new live dvd and have to agree that it's not that bad. I'd say it's better than a top bootleg as the sound is off a soundboard and not in the audience. The video is b&w but still acceptable. I thought the first half (the first concert) was the best as showcases their older material.