Filmed at the Decades Rock Arena in Atlantic City’s Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, this 2017 concert features original Pretenders members Chrissie Hynde, the former rock critic turned sultry rock singer/guitarist, and Martin Chambers (guitar), along with a small backup band and guest artists. Weighing in at a little over an hour, the emphasis here is on the "friends" of the title, with the pop/rock/New Wave Pretenders only soloing six of the 12 Pretenders songs (out of 16 tunes total), including the hits "Back on the Chain Gang," "Precious," "Mystery Achievement," and "Brass in Pocket." Is it worth it to miss "Time the Avenger," "My City Was Gone," and "Night in My Veins" in order to hear "The Bucket" (Kings of Leon), "Drive" (Incubus), and "Candy" (Iggy Pop)? In a word, no; in fact, the only joint effort that stands out here is Hynde and Shirley Manson (of Garbage) singing "Talk of the Town" and "Only Happy When It Rains." And the all-hands-on-deck closer "Middle of the Road" suitably rocks. But overall this is a disappointing concert, and Pretenders fans would be much better served by the fine Pretenders: Loose in L.A. (VL-1/04). Presented in a Blu-ray/DVD Combo edition in Dolby Digital 5.1 and stereo, extras include a bonus audio CD and brief interview snippets with the Pretenders and guests. Optional. (R. Pitman)
Pretenders with Friends
(2017) 66 min. Blu-ray/DVD Combo: $29.99 (audio CD included). MVD Entertainment Group (avail. from most distributors). Volume 34, Issue 5
Pretenders with Friends
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