PINK FLOYD'S DAVID GILMOUR (VHS)

I was delighted to find this VHS tape of David Gilmour sometime ago in a bargain bin. What a treat! It features footage of a concert Gilmour performed at the Hammersmith Odeon in London during his 1984 European tour which started shortly after the release of his second solo album, About Face. He performs not only selections from his first two solo albums, but also includes performances of a couple Pink Floyd numbers (Run Like Hell and Comfortably Numb). In addition, Roy Harper performs guest vocals on Short and Sweet and Pink Floyd drummer Nick Mason performs on Comfortably Numb.

The concert is really, really low-tech compared to the large light shows Pink Floyd did. From what I understand, most of the venues Gilmour performed at were smaller "theater-like" places, unlike the big stadiums Floyd did. Nonetheless, the low-tech appearance does not distract from the music, all performed quite well, even the Pink Floyd numbers.

In addition to the concert footage, this VHS tape includes two music videos, one of Blue Light, the other of All Lovers Are Deranged. These are just plain silly. Gilmour looks really out of touch on these, especially with that 1980s attire. They also look like they were cheaply done. Remember, this was 1984, when music videos were in their infancy (maybe with the exception of Michael Jackson and later Peter Gabriel). Good for a few chuckles. Even so, I'm glad he included them rather than letting them sit accumulating dust in some hidden archive.

The last section of the tape is a documentary of the tour, about Gilmour's life after the Floyd, and his enjoyment of the success of the tour. Scenes include sound checks, interviews with Gilmour in a hotel room, the tour bus on the road, and some of the members of his touring band. This was nicely put together and is an excellent document for this short period in Gilmour's life.

This VHS tape by no means is essential in the grand scheme of prog rock things, but clearly is important for those of you who are interested in David Gilmour's work and life. Some Pink Floyd fans will also enjoy this. Three stars.

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