SMOKE & MIRRORS

When it comes to concert DVD's, a band is usually putting everything on the table to make a good show. Marketing staffs are using this media to stir up buyers to grab attention at their products. So if I give 5 stars, it's for meaning 'above excellent job' in this case, and if you want to get a good idea of the band, get this.

Compared to Caught in the Act, this one has a much more powerful sound and more special features and more humor. The checklist is kinda the same, and the band is more dynamic than ever. Néo-prog never been this catchy and heavy since they rised in 1995. They jump a lot, laugh a lot, doing lots of silly jokes, and sing loudly from start to end. The crowd was seated, but after a while, the atmosphere is heating up and the fun really kicks in...just like in a real concert. The theater is suiting well Pepper's Ghost material, and a good bravo to a much more complex lighting equipement. Many times, the scrolling filming gave me goosebumps, making Arena look like superstars.The band is tighter than ever, and the many many camera angles are cool and give a more professionalism feel to the whole thing.

I was surprised how well this turns out and I can frankly say that I wasn't disappointed, even more happy to finally own the 10th anniversary with tons of extras and good interviews. Arena is a very generous band, on stage and out!

I saw it live in Quebec City, and the DVD is frankly giving me the envy to be there again.

Great job, buy it to be amazed.