WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE

Where The Wild Things Are is the most technically dazzling audio/visual assault on the senses that I've encountered on DVD. Gone is the Vai of straight-forward shredding. There are two violins onstage and a sitar-esque electric instrument which drive forward the storm of progressive metal and sonic bending lead by Vai's astonishing abilities. All of the performers, as would be expected for a Vai concert, are virtuosos.

Visually, the DVD is a spectacle; Vai goes all out with his colorful, flamboyant clothes and stage decorations, and he plays some beautiful instruments. He has a great stage presence, and it's truly awe-inspiring to watch him play some of the more complex passages.

The highlight of the DVD in my opinion is the 11 minute version of Freak Show Excess, which must be seen to be appreciated. The climax solo in it is one of the most impressive I've ever heard.

The only flaw is that the performance turns into over-indulgent wankery at some points and loses much of its impact in the process. This keeps it at a 9 instead of a 10. Nonetheless, an essential DVD.

Rating: 9/10