MADE IN CUBA (DVD)

There are obvious comparisons between this release and the Live in Buenos Aries DVD which came out in 2001. One major niggle for me is the large number of tracks that are duplicated; Journey, Catherine Parr, The Visit/Return of the Phantom, Merlin and Starship Trooper are all on the previous release. The band isn't the same however and this ensures that the tracks are sufficiently different.

Lee Pomeroy is still present on bass but he is much more prominent and puts in a better performance. The drummer is Ashley Soan and although he was called upon at the last minute (due to Tony Fernandez sustaining an injury) he also puts in a great performance. Guitarist Dave Colquoun doesn't reach the same level as the others but he does produce a couple of good solos. Vocalist Ashley Holt, a Wakeman stalwart from the 70s, is woefully under rehearsed he has to read all the lyrics and strains on some of the songs. He fairs better on the material where he was the original vocalist.

Wakeman's own performance is significantly better though. It is obvious he is enjoying himself, several tracks are simply outstanding. He has a set of 10 keyboards in all, including two genuine mini-moogs, arranged in a big semi-circle and the way he effortlessly moves from one to another is mesmerising.

Journey is slightly longer but only really gets going at the end. The Recollection/The Spaceman is a great track and it's where the band starts to take off. Catherine Parr is much the same but the improvised section in the middle is superb, I found myself listening to what Wakeman was playing with his left hand as well as his right. On Jane Seymour he completely outdoes himself and this is one of the highlights of the concert. Merlin doesn't work quite as well with Wakeman strolling about in the crowd but the ending of Starship Trooper shows his unsurpassed ablility.

Fans are going to buy this to see Wakeman in action and from this point of view it's an excellent purchase, and it's the reason I give it 4 stars.