SNAKES & ARROWS LIVE

The next in the long list of Rush DVD's released in the past 5 years (not a bad thing at all), Snakes and Arrows Live looks nearly identical to R30, however this really rises above the other release as it contains the full show (plus). It not only contains the entire show of the first run, but also the songs they swapped out for the second leg of the tour.

I do want to say that while some people feel they are milking their history for easy dollars from fans by releasing so many live albums and DVD's, I have to take the opposite tack. I feel that these are fan generated relaeses, giving us the opportunity to complete our collections and retain memories of the shows we've seen. I feel it is something all bands should do on each tour, as they are the best momentos a fan can possess.

The beauty of these live releases of DVD over their soundtrack counterparts is the humor, which is completly left off of the CD's. While they never compromise on their performance, taking the note for note reproduction 100% seriously, seeing the interplay between the band and the charmingly inept videos really ground the band with the fans, almost as if it is a gift they are giving the audience.

The performances and show are top notch, with every song being improved over the originals in terms of energy and pace (the Snakes and Arrows tracks are especially helped by the live setting). Their performances on Far Cry, Main Monkey Business, and Malignant Narcissism are truly dynamic and intense. When I saw the show live on both passes, I clearly remember being blown away during these tracks, suprised that even after being a fan for over twenty five years I could still be saying Damn, these guys really rock! It is also a real treat to see Entre Nous and Circumstances dusted off and brought back to life.

The quality of the picture is equal to R30, in that the colors are vibrant and the dark are crisp. The band is so confident in the technology that Geddy and Alex wear black and yet they still seem crisp and detailed. The lighting is warm and vivid and all the effects are well presented and the sound is top notch. It is a truly complete package and an excellent collection to any rock fan.