Holy ‘70s, Bachman! The Canadian boys who put the “power” into power chord (just before Rush) are back—or at least mainstays Randy Bachman (guitar and vocals) and C. F. Turner (bass and vocals) are—for this 2010 performance filmed at NYC's Roseland Ballroom. Backed by guitarists Brent Howard Knudsen and Mick Dalla-Vee, along with drummer Marc LaFrance, Bachman & Turner (formerly Bachman-Turner Overdrive) build the proverbial wall of sound during this 20-song set that is heavy on the hits, including “Let It Ride,” “Hey You,” “Rock Is My Life,” and “You Ain't Seen Nothin' Yet.” Although the venue is fairly intimate for their brand of arena rock, the music shines, with Bachman's delicate higher-pitched vocals alternating nicely with Turner's trademark growl. And even though BTO's best-known material is built around three-chord rock and heavy bass, Bachman remains a gifted guitarist whose jazz and blues chops are evident on songs like “Blue Collar”—one of the show's highlights—while nimble-fingered Turner can still authoritatively rock a bass. Most viewers won't recognize the five songs here off 2010's Bachman & Turner CD, but classic rock fans will surely enjoy the band's note-perfect rendition of “American Woman,” co-writer Bachman's hit with his former outfit, the Guess Who. And Letterman sidekick Paul Shaffer comes onstage to join the band for a three-song closer that includes the signature anthem “Takin' Care of Business.” While BTO was never known for insightful lyrics—the band's most common subject was trucking—the music did and still does rock. Presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 and stereo on DVD, and Dolby Digital 5.1 and LPCM stereo on Blu-ray, this is recommended. (R. Pitman)
Bachman & Turner: Live at the Roseland Ballroom NYC
(2011) 94 min. DVD: $14.98, Blu-ray: $19.98. Eagle Vision (avail. from most distributors). Volume 27, Issue 5
Bachman & Turner: Live at the Roseland Ballroom NYC
Star Ratings
As of March 2022, Video Librarian has changed from a four-star rating system to a five-star one. This change allows our reviewers to have a wider range of critical viewpoints, as well as to synchronize with Google’s rating structure. This change affects all reviews from March 2022 onwards. All reviews from before this period will still retain their original rating. Future film submissions will be considered our new 1-5 star criteria.
Order From Your Favorite Distributor Today: