The Hellacopters--Goodnight Cleveland
MVD 2003
Essentially the godfathers of what some call "action rock," the Hellacopters influence and importance as a band is undeniable. Grammy winners in their homeland of Sweden and festival headliners all over the world, these guys are superstars everywhere they go. That is, almost everywhere. Goodnight Cleveland documents the struggles the 'Copters face in the U.S. market, while showcasing the live magic that has made them a household name in virtually every other country.
The main program of this Hellacopters DVD is the tour documentary Goodnight Cleveland. It is a chronicle of the 'Copters 2002 American jaunt. This footage shows the band plowing through city after city in less than ideal circumstances--traveling and quarters are tight, people get sick, and virtually every free second the band has seems filled with an endless array of interviews, photo shoots, and radio appearances. The small clubs the band play probably only add to the deer-in-headlights experience of it all for them, as the Hellacopters look to be playing much larger venues overseas.
That said, the Hellacopters have always been a great live band and, no matter what size the room, a 'Copters crowd is practically guaranteed to be flattened by the rock they put out. While the documentary portion of this DVD is fairly light on music, the bonus material stands as proof of the Hellacopters power in concert. Diehard fans will be blown away by the early and rare performances offered, especially. However, the biggest reasons to be grateful for this bonus live material are the moments when the band is joined onstage by legendary rockers Scott Morgan (Sonic's Rendevous Band) and Rick Sims (Gaza Strippers/Didgits). The moments with Morgan feel particularly special as the members of the Hellacopters seem unable and unwilling to mask their respect and admiration for this rock n' roll icon. It doesn't get much better.
If it was just the documentary offered on this DVD, the recommendation would fall strictly for diehard fans. Fortunately, the additional live footage (which is actually longer than the documentary) makes Goodnight Cleveland a valuable pick up for all fans of raw, hard, rock n' roll. In capturing the essence of the Hellacopters both on and offstage, this DVD is a success.
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