Phil Collins: Live at Montreux 2004

Solo superstar Phil Collins serves up a 23-song set in this 2004 Montreux concert that finds the former Genesis frontman/drummer taking the stage with a strong band and handful of backup singers to crank out one hit after another, including “Against All Odds,” “One More Night,” “Don't Lose My Number,” “In the Air Tonight” (one of the few times that Collins gets behind a drum kit), and “Another Day in Paradise.” Dressed in black, Collins—who addresses the audience in French—initially seems vocally subdued (obviously backing away from high and sustained notes), a problem compounded by the fact that he's sometimes drowned out by the music. But Collins improves as the night rolls on and even shines on some of the quieter numbers, such as “Two Hearts,” and the popular cover “True Colors,” closing with a fun trio of tunes that feature some entertaining stage business: Paul Simon's “Wear My Hat” (with Collins donning a colorful succession of wacky hats), “Easy Lover” (a love triangle played out with two of the backup singers), and “Sussudio” (with Collins interacting with the crowd, urging individuals to “say the word”). Returning with a brief encore, Collins cleverly introduces the band and sends each member home during the finale “Take Me Home.” As a bonus, the disc also features a 13-song mostly instrumental 1996 performance by the Phil Collins Big Band—conducted by Quincy Jones—with guest stars including David Sanborn (playing blistering sax on “In the Air Tonight”) and Tony Bennett (singing “There'll Be Some Changes Made”). Presented in DTS 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1 and stereo on DVD, and DTS-HD 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1, and LPCM stereo on Blu-ray, this is recommended with one caveat: for better or worse, viewers will be stuck with a Collins mixtape playing in their heads for weeks after watching. (R. Pitman)