Review: The Eagles - Farewell I Tour - Live From Melbourne

As someone who rejoiced when the Hell Freezes Over tour was announced, I was just as happy to hear the Farewell I Tour, was not a farewell at all, but as mentioned very early in the concert, to be quickly followed by the Farewell II tour. I am a long time fan of the band as well as each of the member’s individual careers, so I had high expectations going into this DVD.

The Eagles - Farewell I Tour - Live From Melbourne (Warner Home Video), released June 14, 2005, is a two DVD set that includes all the classic Eagles songs, as well as songs members did on solo projects and bonus interviews with the band.

The show was filmed at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne, Australia, which served as a beautiful backdrop. I was also impressed with the way the show was lit. The enthusiastic crowd was showcased without compromising the feel of the live show. The large video screens as well as the lighting effects were displayed is just such a way to make you feel as though you were there, but to not distract from the show itself.

The audio was just as impressive. Clear surround sound filled the air and gave me as close to a concert in my living room as I’ve experienced yet.

Opening with “The Long Run,” I was carried back to my teen years and the angst and emotion of that time. The journey continues back through the seventies with the classics, “New Kid in Town,” “Already Gone,” and “Take it to the Limit,” just to mention a few.

The first disc is full of all the soulful harmonies we’re use to hearing from the Eagles, but each talented member also has his personal moments to shine. Glen Frey is both vocally as well as visually showcased on one of my personal favorites, “Lying eyes.” On the very next song, “Boys of Summer,” Don Henley takes center stage and picks up the energy, which stays high for the next several songs. Other solo songs featured include “Life’s Been Good” (Walsh) and “Dirty Laundry.” (Henely) Both are on disc two.

As if music that spans three decades wasn’t enough, disc two also contains the bonus feature, “Eagles Interviews.” Band members discuss everything from what it is like to first walk on stage, the make up the audiences, daily sound checks, and just music in general. The interviews are insightful as well as very fun.

I danced in my seat through this eclectic mix of music history, and wholeheartedly recommend it anyone.

Article Author: Connie Phillips

Wife, mother, aspiring novelist, and music editor at BC Magazine, Connie Phillips spends most of her time in a fantasy land of her own creating. Contact: Phillips.connie@gmail.com

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