Powerman 5000 - Backstage & Beyond the Infinite
For those not in the know, Boston-based band Powerman 5000 hit it big by blending science fiction with industrial/heavy metal (think Rush's storytelling with Rammstein's aesthetics) into a type of silly hybrid that has fueled many a mosh pit around the world. They wear goofy, futuristic costumes, play simplistic riffs, and are led by a Jim Jarmusch look-alike (and, with his monotone delivery, sound-alike), who calls himself Spider One. If this was all tongue-in-cheek, it could be fun. However after watchingBackstage and Beyond the Infinite, you get the sense that these guys somehow think what they do is important. Yes, you get plenty of live material, as well as videos like "Nobody's Real," but in the backstage footage, you see the band mocking everyone around them, including their fans. If you were hoping to see interviews with the band, or get some idea of their musical approach, this DVD will certainly disappoint you. And if you're a fan who wants to see what the band really thinks of you, get ready to be laughed at.--Dave McCoy