DVD Review by Doug Cornell

By combining John Cale's droning viola, the dual guitars of Lou Reed and Sterling Morrisson, and the simple percussion of Moe Tucker, the Velvet Underground were the prototypical avant-garde rock band.  REM, the Feelies, and countless other modern rock bands owe a debt to the VU for demonstrating that rock music did not have to follow the typical verse-chorus-verse patterns so common in pop music.  While the VU were rarely played on the radio in the late 60's or early 70's, those who followed the music press were clued into the band, and most readers of this website should have a copy of their seminal release, The Velvet Underground and Nico.  Songs like "Venus in Furs," "Femme Fatale," and "Heroin" are examples of the pure genius that the band could collectively demonstrate.

Velvet Redux Live MCMXCII is an odd live recording of reunited band who put together a tour to open for U2 in 1993.  Long past their prime, the band is on stage again (sans Nico).  They put together a solid set list that represents the best tracks from their career.  Lou Reed dominates the center stage, while Cale effortly moves from the viola to piano and bass guitar.  Cale sings a confident lead on "Femme Fatale," but relies on lyrics taped to his mic stand.  Morrison is a steady guitar player, but he rarely acknowledges the rest of the band.  Moe Tucker is the most energetic performer, as she moves around to various percussion instruments while keeping a relentlessly steady beat, especially during the extended musical passages in "Hey Mr. Rain"  (look for Tuckers style of stand-up drumming and her horizontal bass drum).

Lou Reed looks healthy and strong, and he possesses a commanding stage presence, especially during the guitar/viola solo in "Hey Mr. Rain."   VU songs often sound dark and haunting, but they have a bit of fun while allowing Tucker to sing lead on the lightweight "I'm Sticking With You."  "I Heard Her Call My Name" sounds remarkably like it could have been on the Feelies album, Only Life, with its driving rhythm and lively guitar solo. The band pulls off an energetic version of "Rock and Roll," then jumps into a string of hits with "Sweet Jane," "I'm Waiting for the Man," an absolutely stunning "Heroin," and the placid "Pale Blue Eyes."

Velvet Redux Live MCMXCII is a must-have DVD for the VU completest.  Casual fans might find the bands lack of interaction to be annoying, but they won't be able to deny that the Velvet Underground tried their hardest to put together a solid reunion tour.

Track Listings:
Venus in Furs
White Light/White Heat
Beginning to See the Light
Some Kinda Love
Femme Fatale
Hey Mr. Rain
I'm Sticking With You
I Heard Her Call My Name
I'll Be Your Mirror
Rock N'Roll
Sweet Jane
I'm Waiting for the Man
Heroin
Pale Blue Eyes
Coyote