The Shadows - The Final Tour DVD
The DVD and CD is out now and is a fabulous record of the 2004 Tour. Order with confidence! Available from Leos Den and all major outlets.
Regular readers of the various Internet Message Boards dedicated to The Shadows will be well aware of the comment that has been posted in respect of the DVD. To say the topic aroused debate was an understatement, much of the opinion I should stress was positive - but on subsequent reading of the Boards, such positive comment was 'lost' amongst a 'sea' of comment from individuals who, for reasons best known to themselves, wrote about supposed problems which, in their view detracted from their enjoyment of the DVD. This led to both Warren Bennett and Brian Bennett posting comment in response - pointing out a few home truths, in response to which some fans still did not seem to get the message!
As this debate rumbled on many fans emailed me at my Web Site address expressing very strong views about the behaviour of these people & the fact that they felt it should be made clear on the Web that the majority of fans were very pleased with the DVD , feeling that it represents a great record of The Shadows tour. So, together with comment that says it how it is, the fans speak...
Fans Comments
……The vast majority of the fans that I know are more than happy with the tour, the CD and DVD. It was indeed a privilege to be able to attend the Shadows concerts earlier this year. Thank you (and Hank, Bruce, Brian, Mark and Cliff) for re-forming to play for us and thanks to Warren for his efforts in bringing us a quality DVD as a memento. Dave-D Shadows Archive
10 out of 10!!!! Fabulous sound and pictures. Great camera shots - including across Brian's kit. Amazing "Little B" - again what great camera shots. Very professional menus and interesting interviews. Sound & pictures well synced. Incredible value. Well done to all! Phil Jarvis Brians Drums
….I do feel that these comments have been made by individuals who know b****r all about music…..I know what I hear on that DVD is good.... so I am proud to nail my colours to the mast - and incidentally that view is reached by what I hear & not because I know ‘someone’ either!!!!!! Cazz Shadows Fan Site
As one who bought the DVD from the Final Tour I can say with hand on heart that it is a superb production and truly represents what I saw at the four concerts that I attended. Dave R Friends of The Shadows Web Group
You pays your money and you takes your choice but all of the music from the Shads' 2004 tour is included on both the CD and the DVD release. It's well recorded, well produced, and it sounds great. In the sound balance is better as you can hear from Mark Griffiths is playing all the way through. Each package contains photos from the tour and (the same) well written notes by Malcolm Campbell. Apart from the obvious the only difference between them is the interview which only appears on the DVD. It's pretty good good and lasts for over 40 minutes. There is not much competition, but this is the best of The Shadows on DVD. They play all the numbers you might reasonably expect and include one or two surprises. My only serous query would be over "My Home Town" which is not the best advert from the Marvin, Welch and Farrar albums. Some wag might suggest that Cliff should have sung his hits but, judging by the evidence of the Palladium concert when he did join them, Hank and Bruce sang them better anyway! I can't wait for the final tour. Alan Taylor Pipeline Magazine
Wonderful band! - WOW ! Shadows' fans everywhere, rejoice ! Here is the fabulous DVD of their final tour that not only meets, but exceeds all expectations. This is a special treat for us fans in Canada and the USA, where in the US at least, this great group has never been on the radar screen. Before you read on a confession. Ever since I heard their first hit "Apache" in 1960, I have been a diehard fan--so this review is very, very biased ! I considered them then--as I do now--to be the greatest pop/rock instrumental band in the world. The Shads--as their legions of fans call them--had not played together in several years. Fortunately, due to constant fan support all over the globe, they decided to get back together for this final tour. They became stars, first as Cliff Richard's back-up group, then in their own right, about 45 years ago, when they were scarcely more than teenagers--do the math--they aren't kids anymore. However, like a fine wine, the Shads have actually improved with age--they never sounded better or played better than in this marvellous concert, recorded in Cardiff, Wales, earlier this year. Of course, the Shads are Hank Marvin, lead guitar--Bruce Welch, rhythm guitar--Brian Bennett, drums. They are accompanied on this tour by two other fine musicians--Mark Griffiths, bass and Cliff Hall, keyboards. You really get your "moneys worth" with this concert--it clocks in at around three hours and includes 39 numbers from their long career. There is a lot of variety here--exciting, fast-paced tunes like The Savage", "Geronimo", "Shazam", "Shadoogie", "Gonzales" and "FBI"--lovely melodic numbers like "Atlantis", "Theme for Young Lovers","Theme from the Deer Hunter" and the timeless "Wonderful Land". Hank and Bruce have always been good vocalists too, and two of their big vocal hits are included, " Don't Make My Baby Blue" and "Let Me Be the One". They also pay tribute to their old "boss", Sir Cliff, with several of his hits which the Shads wrote--"The Day I Met Marie", "Gee Whiz It's You", "Summer Holiday" and "Bachelor Boy". I was also impressed with their overall performance--they really seemed to be having as much fun as the audience. Brian Bennett gets several chances to show that he can play drums with the best of them--his showcase "Little B" is a clinic for aspiring drummers everywhere. Bruce Welch shows us, as he has for years, that there is more to rhythm guitar than just strumming--he's no slouch as a "picker" either--listen to his duet with Hank on the jazzy "Nivram". As for Hank Marvin--beautiful lead guitar work--the man who gives the Shads their unique sound--the man who "launched a thousand guitar players" ( probably more ! )--my favourite guitarist, sounding better than ever. I found the technical quality of the DVD to be excellent--the picture sharp and clear--for sound, all important for this group, I picked the DTS option--really outstanding. I felt like I had a front row seat ! The DVD also includes a very relaxed and informative interview with Hank and Bruce, remembering their childhood in Newcastle (no wonder Mark Knopfler is a fan !), and then moving to London to find fame and fortune. Brian joins them about half way through the interview, and recalls how he joined the group. There are also scenes of their post-tour party in London, with people like Brian May, Queen's great guitarist, paying tribute to the Shads, and Hank in particular. Also at the party--Sir Cliff himself, sounding quite wistful that he may never get a chance to perform with his old mates again. C'mon, Cliff--they said "last tour" not last concert--if anyone can talk them into something really special, say for a worthy charity, gee whiz it's you ! I know that five stars is the "max" under this system, but as I'm sure you can tell this disc is worth a lot more to me than that--much more. For Shads fans, this DVD is a wonderful testament to the music and talent of Hank, Bruce and Brian. For people who were never exposed to "Shadowmania", why not see what you have been missing ? ! My highest recommendation. Peter, Canada. Amazon.com
The DVD is awesome and a great memory, but live you are best Rune Bruce Welch Tribute Site
For me - I could not give a toss if Hank played a Tesco Telecaster played through a 5 watt practise amp or Brian just played the spoons! - Last year was very special - This DVD is a memento of this. (I thought I had seen my last Shads concert in the late 80's). I will be buying a copy and not moaning about it - It’s a shame some 'fans' can't accept anything less in their eyes than 'holy grail perfection’. Stop the whining! Geffers - South Coast Shadows Club
Well as you know I do not usually get embroiled with sensitive debates as a mediator I stay on the touch line. However having received this morning my copy of the Final Tour DVD and read all of your comments, most disappointed with the sound, I am prompted to add my bit! This is the best Shadows Media you will have to play at home its stunning in my opinion, for a live performance. Camera work is outstanding; £13.99 is worth the Brian Bennett solo of Little-B alone! for me Bruce’s guitars are spot on, Griffs bass is spot on, Cliffs keys are spot on and Hank done the biz! - just say a thank you to the editor for giving us so much of Hanks finger work, an instructional DVD as well. Mike H - Warwick Shadows Club
To me, the DVD sound is an accurate reflection of the live sound on this tour. David Martin – Shadow Music Web Group
Thank God!....at long last some sanity has crept in to the unbelievable comments on the 'sound quality' of the DVD and CD of the last tour! I've sat back over recent days and started to read some of these threads re. various people's opinions on the merits/demerits of the DVD/CD and been utterly amazed that they've clearly missed the point....it's simply a superb encapsulation on 'film' of the band that's shaped my musical career and, I guess, a lot of others-it's worth more to me as a final keepsake of their heritage to so many of us and I, for on for one, think it's a superb job!! ………….Maurice Woodcroft - BungleFlint
….. I bought my copy of the DVD late last night after playing a Shadows Tribute gig in the forest of dean Gloucestershire.... Got home at 2.30am and HAD to get up and watch it at 8 this morning.... By lunchtime I had watched all of it and some bits over and over again.... It's AMAZING... It was just like being back at Cardiff again.....In the front row just in front of Hank. The sound was EXACTLY how it sounded on the night - BRILLIANT! - The Final tour interview is excellent in every way ... We can access each song at the press of a button! - A very well produced DVD.. Thanks a million for 40 years of such fantastic music - and see you again at the encore concert in the NIA .... Phil McGarrick BungleFlint
…..I agree it is a fab DVD. Just turn it up loud and absorb the atmosphere!!... Kaye Lee-Wright
DVD FANTASTIC in all respects…. Reading all the adverse comments some people are never satisfied. Captain Zlogg
Mine arrived this morning from the same source. Superb quality, picture and sound .I've only played it on my P.C. and it still looks great. Baz
Hi Cazz ..... Couldn't resist a quick hello as I'm just visiting your brilliant site for an update on ''Shadows'' music matters and saw your 'banana' symbol leaping around! I received my DVD of the Cardiff show, which I actually attended, on Friday (bit slow here) and have been absolutely delighted with it. I had already seen, on another site, the unfortunate comments made by a few groaners re the sound quality etc and so was pleased to see the response posted on your site by Brian and Warren. I can't understand what drives them along but fortunately these 'nutters' seem to be in a microscopic minority judging by the tremendous response the band have received. They should really be delighted that the Shads are still able to perform so well. Keep it up with your site ...thanks again ....I did visit frequently during the tour for updates which was fantastic and will look in again, particularly next year for hopefully not the final tour! Doug
Hi Cazz..... Just found your website this sunny morning (it is here in New Zealand). I am one of the few privileged ones in NZ to have received my copy of the tour DVD and am also waiting for another copy which is to be signed by Bruce. I have been playing for over 40 years and have a top Shadows tribute band in New Zealand. I was extremely surprised to hear and see the quality on this DVD. I did see some of those "whinging" comments and just ignored them. Who are these people? I travelled 12000 miles especially to see the concert in Leicester on 19 May 04. Worth every cent I paid to get there! Loved the comments from Warren Bennett. I continue to play and enjoy seeing these "masters of their craft" on such a memorable DVD, a worthy record of my special effort to get there and share in the enjoyment of the occasion. Also now have my re-issue Burns Marvin, to join with my two "Hank" strats. Long may the good music reign. Keep up the good work, Sincere regards, Garry Miller, Auckland, New Zealand
..Beautifully put and this echoes my sentiments exactly. The show I attended was a master class in entertainment and I can't wait to get my hands on the DVD to remind me of that wonderful night. Chris
I am a true fan of The Shads, and would like to say that the DVD to me is absolutely FANTASTIC. For some reasons I could not attend to the shows in the UK, and therefore the DVD is really a "kick" to me as a substitute not being there on your Final Tour. Arne Kaalaas (Norway)
..Hi Cazz.....I had a reply from Warren about the 30 or so morons who criticised the DVD ..I emailed both Warren & Brian to express my thanks for a brilliant DVD- the boys were fantastic. Dave-S
Got mine today (Saturday) as well. Played it through on the computer, cos I couldn’t bear to switch it off. It is excellent in 5.1 surround sound as well. Alan
The DVD has exceeded all my expectations and hopes (But even before then I knew it would be good) in picture, sound quality and I simply cannot stop watching it. Gonzales typifies the exuberance and wonder of this incredible band. The night I went to Northampton the sound was knicker-wettingly good. The DVD and CD actually enhanced the memory of one of the best nights of my life. My congratulations to all involved with its production, everyone - I am so happy it came into being so quickly and well. Nothing will part me from my copy and I am very proud to own it. You guys were always the very best, still are the very best and always will be the very best. My best wishes for the tour next year to you all. Nick-McNulty
….Bought the DVD today - pure class!.... Doctor Bass
The DVD is indeed fantastic - the best record of them ever - and it is the concert we never thought we'd see, or have on video. The interview is great as well. I can't stop playing it (a divorce threat may stop this soon though) and it is amazing how the music stands up as being so fresh after all these years. The individual performances are all virtually perfect and all fans simply must have it. Mike AB
I really can't believe what I am reading. I bought the DVD and CD - in fact 2 copies of each, one for me and one for my son. There is nothing wrong with the sound on the DVD - it is absolutely great, there must be something wrong with the TVs or sound systems some of you are using with your DVD players. I have a digital system with full surround sound and the sound is absolutely excellent - crank it up a bit and it really gets you. What really pleases me is how clear each instrument is, the bass really thumps out - I recall there were some who complained during the tour that the bass was indistinct - personally, I didn't agree, I thought it was fine. On the DVD soundtrack the bass is superb. Bruce's sound is excellent and Hank's has real conviction. No the tone isn't the same as it was on the 1st album - so what, this is Hank 2004, and it's great. I am absolutely delighted with both the DVD and the CD they are a 5 star reminder of a great tour. If I was going to criticise anything on the DVD it is the playing of various wanna-be's after the interviews - they certainly don't have "the sound"!! Brian-D
Since The Shads have produced very little Video output over the years... Why can’t we just get on and enjoy what we have..... All this complaining just drives me mad!! Burt-Burns
First of all a big thank you to Brian for his superb input - it really should not have been necessary! The response and behaviour that was the cause of this response was totally irresponsible - who on earth do we think we are to criticise such professionals. We tried for years to get The Shadows to appear together for one last time and we kick them in the teeth for what was a truly memorable occasion for 99.9% of the Shadows Community - it really is disgraceful behaviour. Like Maurice I've watched this from the sidelines and simply could not believe what I was seeing! I have both the DVD and the CD, both are truly magnificent in their quality of sound - I doubt that I have a better DVD of any live performance of any artist from my collection of over 1000 CD/DVDs. I'm fortunate that my sound system is superb and the quality and presence from the DVD from either the Dolby or DTS Surround Sound is outstanding - the response of my system even to Kon-Tiki does not - repeat DOES NOT create any distortion. It's simply down to the "a craftsman blaming his tools" - you simply need a good system to truly listen and appreciate this outstanding music! Of course this is merely my opinion, just like Maurice - and of course this site is renowned for it's toleration of differing opinions isn't it!!!!! Looking forward to NIA in May 2005, when The Shadows perform their "Encore Performance" I hope we have the privilege of another DVD, but in the light of the response from a small minority we are unlikely to get a repeat, if this is the response they get for their dedication!... Bob Gregory
What more can I add I've seen the comments .......Maybe I'm a little behind , but my wife and I have only just been able to see my copy of the DVD this weekend and we think it's absolutely brilliant. We had a great time at Cardiff ourselves and this of course has added to the enjoyment of the recording which will be a lasting memory for us. I was thrilled to find so much on the DVD and I would also like to mention the lengthy interview which we really enjoyed. Looking towards next year at NIA ........Thanks Shads ! Coolcatstrat
Who cares what the whiners say. As an ardent fan of all of you, individually & collectively I wouldn't care what the quality was like as long as I had a lasting memory of the concert I attended. The minute I put the DVD on it brought 5th of May, Glasgow back to me & I've been to the Cardiff show almost every night since the DVD was released. For good measure I bought the CD at the same time too. All the best, keep up the good work & enjoy the 2005 tour. Ian
….. thanks for taking an interest in the posts in the group; I'm only sorry that you felt that you had to respond to the negativity of an extremely small minority......
.....Some people don't seem to realise that a live gig is not the same as a studio recording and that the sound will be different. Personally I love both. It is always a great pleasure to listen to and watch artists of your calibre playing live. The differences between the studio and stage are what make the experience special......
Some people seem to want a concert to sound exactly like the record; most look forward to hearing that special live sound and look forward to any little changes that might be made. For example, when The Shads first started playing Flingel Bunt with the change in the middle, I can remember a rush of excitement going through the audience at the Playhouse in Edinburgh where I first heard it. Of course there were the moaning minnies who decided that it just wasn't right but, when it comes down to it, the vast majority of the audience loved it and appreciated that something special. Good luck with the European tour and here's to your further success with your writing. Edin Stratman
Cazz – What utter bollocks is being written on some internet sites about the recently released DVD - whatever edition they are listening to is not the one which I have - A SUPERB ENCAPSULATION of the lads at their VERY best! – hugely recommended. Also keep up the work on your incredible web site - BRILLIANT! Regards Steve B
Hi Cazz please pass on my thanks to Brian and Warren for a superb DVD – this has quite made my year! Janet
Cazz – To see The Shadows play live this year was a thrill, to be able to relive the concert experience every night in my living room is a treat… I am astounded at the 0.5% of so called fans who criticise the recent DVD release – shame on them! And thank you for your brilliant Web Site I visit often - Bill
The Shadows have gotten a magnificent sendoff with this concert DVD from their final tour, undertaken in 2004 and featuring Hank Marvin, Bruce Welch, and Brian Bennett, supported by Mark Griffiths on bass and Cliff Hall on keyboards. The DVD comes complete with an unusually full accompanying booklet, which is a hint of the care that went into the production; the disc itself is mastered with incredibly full, rich sound, starting with their opening number, "(Ghost) Riders in the Sky," and everything else about this DVD is up to that standard. Indeed, it's all almost too perfect, Marvin and Welch having achieved such crystalline purity on their instruments that live and studio performances seem to become interchangeable. Filmed at the Cardiff Indoor Arena in Wales, the bandmembers look like they're having the time of their lives, and Hank Marvin -- in his 47th year in music -- confirms this good feeling. Marvin and the others approach music that they've played for decades without a trace of rote playing or any other laxness, but with an elegance in the resulting sound (especially on "Peace Pipe" and "Theme for Young Lovers") that it was probably difficult to achieve on-stage in, say, 1962, but they also lay into "The Savage" and similar numbers with an attack that's lost none of its piercing power. They do a total of 41 numbers, all building up to "Apache." Welch has the honor of introducing one of their few vocal hits, "Let Me Be the One," and Marvin acquits himself extremely well vocally on "Lady of the Morning" and "The Day I Met Marie," and also puts the Fender Stratocaster aside for an acoustic guitar on "My Home Town" and "Guitar Tango." Meanwhile, Welch picks up the acoustic guitar for "Geronimo," "Sleepwalk," and a handful of other tunes. Other vocal numbers shared by the members include "Gee Whiz It's You," "Please Don't Tease," "In the Country," and "Summer Holiday." Bennett's featured spot, "Little B," is infinitely more subtle than most solo spots for drummers, and the finale, featuring "FBI," "Wonderful Land," and "Apache," makes for a more than suitable climax to the two-plus hour show. The other highlight of the disc is the interview supplement, in which Welch and Bennett take viewers back across their history to their school days together and their early days playing at the 2I's club, and their first sight of Cliff Richard, singing with another group. Their account is by itself almost worth the price of the disc, it's so filled with good spirits and generosity, and reminders of members who are no longer with us, including Norrie Paramor, as well as vital contributors to their success such as Ian Samwell. They even perform little bits of lost songs. The image on the interview and the concert are both mastered in a 1.85-to-1 aspect ratio, with enhancements for 16x9 widescreen monitors. The menu is easy to maneuver around, since each song gets a chapter marker. Bruce Elder All Music Guide