Product: The Old Grey Whistle Test, Vol. 2 (2005)
Rating: 4.0
It's welcomed, but they're still being stingy.....
This second volume of performance clips from the BBC's historically significant "Old Grey Whistle Test" series continues to goad and tease music geeks. When you research the (amazing!) contents of the THREE volumes already available in the UK, this latest domestic offering, like Vol 1, seems a tad timid and eager to "play it safe" (I can appreciate an "eclectic" mix, but Hall & Oates, Loggins & Messina, Jim Croce and Simply Red are better suited for the ubiquitous "Soft Hits" FM station in your market). There are a few more questionable choices-I love the Who, but why offer a clip of one of the world's greatest LIVE acts LIP SYNCHING thier worst single ever, "The Relay"? Although I am an avid Anglophile, even I could have done without Heads Hands & Feet (erm...who?!) or the in-jokey "skiffle" jam (would it have hurt to include the odd Alex Harvey, Gary Moore or Roy Harper clip that is available on the UK disks instead?) On the plus side, there are enough genuine "live" performances to balance things out. The most dynamic clip belongs to Montrose, really ripping it up with "Bad Motor Scooter". Another highlight-spunky pixie Carla DeVito makes such a sexy splash during an exhaustingly epic rendition of "Paradise By The Dashboard Light" that you'll barely notice that her boss Meat Loaf hits a lot of bad notes due to some obviously over taxed pipes. The NY Dolls are hilariously energetic, even though the deliciously sloppy "Jet Boy" is lip-synched (they were mostly about stage presence anyway). You'll also have a chuckle when you see the Average White Band's Hamish Stuart, sporting the biggest 'fro ever grown by a Scotsman. Some nice moments on the introspective side as well, particularly from Beach Boy Bruce Johnston, delivering a breathtaking "Disney Girls". An appearance by Tim Buckley (performing the lovely "Dolphins") will be revelatory for younger viewers when they glean the spooky parallels in physical appearance and vocal expression with his son Jeff. Punk, New Wave and mid 80's pop are covered as well, from the Adverts to Pre-Fab Sprout. A worthwhile disc (albeit frustrating) for serious music collectors.