The Residents--Demons Dance Alone
MVD/Ralph 2004
Over the course of their three decade long legacy, the Residents have managed to remain compelling in every way a band could. On this new DVD, Demons Dance Alone, that streak remains intact. While this disc may be easier for the general public to consume than past efforts, one should keep in mind that's only by Residents standards.
Demons Dance Alone was filmed during the Residents tour in support of their album by the same title. This material is much more immediate and easier to get one's head around than most of the band's back catalog. Part of the reason for this fact is that the amibuity factor normally present is diluted just enough here for the emotional centerpoint of the material to shine through a bit clearer. There's still tons of that patented Residents quirk and angularity present but a song like "Caring" is probably the closest they've come to producing a tune even remotely radio-ready in thirty years. It's a nice change of pace.
That said, this is the Residents. You knew they would never give you a color-by-numbers entertainment experience and this DVD is testament to that fact. While you'd normally expect a nice three camera audience perspective shoot in a concert DVD, Demons Dance Alone was shot mainly from the stage, interacting with the performers and showing things from their perspective. When taking into account the performance art aspect of the Residents onstage, you can imagine the benefit. There are so many little interesting things going on all at once and this DVD gives you the opportunity to see how it all works up close.
While this Demons Dance Alone DVD showcases a possibly more accessible Residents, it's still obvious how much this band has influenced the Zeek Shecks of the world. You will be entertained by this footage but also challenged. With the Residents, anything else would seem weird. A winner, through and through.
Score this DVD directly from MVD
|
