Nobody in Christopher Cross's band (including Cross) exactly breaks a sweat in this 17-song concert—filmed at Paris's Theatre Le Trianon in April 2012—featuring the singer-songwriter's mellow pop. But there's no question that the cascade of guitar hooks, sweet jazz, and sensual rhythms flowing here are pleasing, however light. Cross's music carries the feel of a breeze in one's sails, mixed with a certain amount of silky sexiness. “The Light Is On” features a catchy Calypso beat with a nice guitar break played by Cross, while “Leave It to Me” boasts a slightly exotic undertone. The major influence of Paul McCartney on Cross can be heard both in the dreamy, sweet romanticism of “Everything” and the witty “Walking in Avalon,” while the smart, jazzy orchestration of “Never Be the Same” cuts against the lyrics' self-pity. Cross's take on his international hit “Sailing” is predictably and winningly velvet-smooth and meditative, while “Dreamers” ventures closest to actual rock-and-roll. Perhaps the show's highlight is a near-couplet of “November,” a spare ballad that resembles a light rain of sadness, followed by “Arthur's Theme,” which is still pretty and delightfully playful. Presented with 5.1 surround and stereo options, the DVD is accompanied by two audio CDs capturing the concert. Recommended. (T. Keogh)
Christopher Cross: A Night in Paris
(2012) 90 min. DVD: $23.98 (2 audio CDs included). Eagle Rock Entertainment (avail. from most distributors). Volume 28, Issue 5
Christopher Cross: A Night in Paris
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