Renaissance
A Symphonic Journey DVD/2-CD Set
Review by Gary Hill
These collections that have both video and audio discs sometimes present a challenge at MSJ. The ones that seem to be CD first with bonus video go under the CD reviews while ones like this that seem to be more based around a video with CDs as extras go under the video reviews.
This set showcases a special performance of Renaissance playing with an orchestra. Interestingly, that orchestra includes Joe Deninzon on violin. Their music seems particularly suited to that type of scenario. At times the orchestra provides icing on the cake. At other times, like the intro to “At the Harbor,” they take command.
The group make their way through a set that includes a number of classic songs along with the title track of their most recent studio album. The performances are inspired and powerful. The video and audio are both great, too. I suppose that, as is always the case, different fans might have quibbles with this song or that not being performed, but comes with the territory when an artist has a large catalog from which to choose. I would also guess that this set was hand-picked to include songs that are best suited to this type of treatment.
There is behind the scenes footage as bonus material here including some cool rehearsal footage and sound check. When you consider that and the main feature, and add in the two-CD set of the music, this is well worth having. I do have one complaint with my copy, though, and that is the packaging. One of my CDs wouldn’t stay in, and in attempting to get it to do, the slot ripped. Still, I think it might be a feature of this copy more than the release in general. At least that is what I am going to assume.
This review is available in book (paperback and hardcover) in Music Street Journal: 2019 Volume 1. More information and purchase links can be found at: garyhillauthor.com/Music-Street-Journal-2019.
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