Ringo Starr & His All Starr Band: Live at the Greek Theatre 2008

The Fab Four drummer and his 10th “all Starr” band bring their aging rock star circus act to L.A.'s Greek Theatre for this two-hour-plus 25-song extravaganza, capping it off with chants of “Give Peace a Chance.” Following the time-honored format, the group serves up a mix of Ringo hits (“It Don't Come Easy,” “Photograph,” Oh My My”), Beatles' chestnuts (“Boys,” “Act Naturally,” the de rigueur “With a Little Help From My Friends”), and songs from the guest musicians. This year's model features Billy Squier on lead guitar (“Lonely Is the Night,” “The Stroke”), Edgar Winter on keyboards and sax (“Free Ride,” “Frankenstein”), Men at Work's Colin Hay on rhythm guitar (“Down Under,” “Who Can It Be Now?”), Gary Wright on keyboards (“Dream Weaver,” “Love Is Alive”), and Average White Band's Hamish Stuart on bass (“Pick Up the Pieces,” “Work to Do”), with session artist Gregg Bissonette on drums. Despite the stellar hit parade, this is a fairly laidback effort—more lounge act than rock concert. All of the musicians are, of course, more than proficient (with the exception of Ringo, whose drumming was always rudimentary—at best—while his voice has not improved with age), with Winter the standout, thanks to his commanding horn blowing. But the magic is unquestionably starting to fade: granted, most of us can still get behind a rousing rendition of “Yellow Submarine,” but hearing Ringo warble to the audience that he will “love you like no other, baby” during “I Wanna Be Your Man” sounds more like a threat than—as the Bard says—a consummation devoutly to be wished. Still, a number of boomers will no doubt want to take this stroll (bring your walkers) down memory lane. Presented in 5.1 surround and stereo, this is recommended, overall. (R. Pitman)