Captain & Tennille in New Orleans

Is the world really ready for a Captain & Tennille revival, or is the release of this DVD just another sign of the coming cultural apocalypse? Just kidding: husband and wife team Daryl Dragon and Toni Tennille might have seemed corny to those of us preoccupied with other things during the 1970s, but these talented musicians brought true showmanship to their TV series (1976-77) and specials, as well as live engagements. For this 1978 TV special shot in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter, the pair perform songs such as “You Never Done It Like That” and “I'm On My Way,” and are joined by special guests Fats Domino and Murphy Campo's Jazz Saints, in addition to non-musical guest stars Hal Linden (Barney Miller) and comic John Byner. Serving up a solid 50 minutes of pop, jazz, ragtime, and blues, Captain & Tennille in New Orleans—presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 sound—is a fine special (once you get past those clothes!). DVD extras include new audio commentary by Tennille and Dragon. Recommended. [Note: this is also available as part of the three-disc set Captain & Tennille—The TV Specials! ($39.98), which also includes the separately available Captain & Tennille in Hawaii and Captain & Tennille: Songbook.] Aud: P. (E. Hulse)