What does it sound like?:
This is a new DVD release from the band that I was first introduced to on this very site – so I thought it only right to write my review here, too.
The band met up at Real World studios, late Summer 2014, to rehearse, to introduce 2 new members, and to see if their songs could be played live. This is the filmed result of those few days.
The disc then also includes 4 songs from their triumphant gigs, a year later, in London.
Firstly, you all know my love for this band, so I make no apologies for the fact that this will be a gushing review.
Everything about BBT shouts ‘quality’, and the packaging here is no exception. Beautifully photographed, beautifully put together, it is everything a Big Big Train DVD should be.
The sound is impeccable. Rob Aubrey, their sound man, genius and almost extra member does a fantastic job, just as he did at the live gigs.
The band roar through 9 songs, interspersed with chat, interviews, conversation and laughter. The whole thing is beautifully shot and is a feast for the eyes and ears.
The 4 live tracks are wonderful and just take me back to that hot, August Friday night when I roared, clapped, sang and cried – it was that good.
This is the band’s first attempt at a DVD and, as their fans have come to expect, expect, they have done a terrific job.
What does it all *mean*?
This is actually a great introduction to the band – a sampler of some of their best material plus a way into the ethos of the band that they talk about so enthusiastically.
Goes well with…
A large glass of your favourite tipple, the volume turned up and no interruptions.
Release Date:
Might suit people who like…
If you love music played by amazing musicians, music that they have lovingly crafted, music that tells a story, transports you, lifts you out of your daily grind, then Big Big Train are you perfect vehicle. The smile on Nick d’Virgilio’s face says it all – one of the world’s best drummers absolutely loving the music they are making.
A truly wonderful addition to their 25 years of work.
I watched it too myself just yesterday. It’s a brilliant piece of work. The separation clarity in the mix of the different (and many) instruments is incredible.
I was surprised to hear during one of the interviews that the previous recordings (presumably English Electric) had been done piece by piece in the manner described. How is that possible with such intricate twists and turns in the arrangement? I guess it’s partly with brilliant musicianship and partly with an exceptional producer / engineer. As you suggest, Rob Aubrey deserves a full band credit for his role in the proceedings. With the luxury of having the entire ensemble in the same room, the results go above and beyond anything they have produced thus far.
I was at the Sunday performance of the Kings Cross gigs and so may actually appear on the film myself (I’ll have to freeze frame!)
I highly recommend this band to anyone yet to hear them and this film is a great introduction.
Still waiting for my copy, but glad to see that it is out (although the release date was listed as 21 Mar, I hadn’t seen an indication it had shipped).
Still note sure when mine will turn up – the website states that the release date for “rest of the world” has moved to July (apparently due to some compatibility issues) and those who ordered would be notified. I haven’t had that email, so fingers crossed its currently winging its way to Singapore……
Looking forward to it, especially after these reviews.
The UK release date slipped by one week. They announced something on the Facebook group which did speak of some compatibility issue.
I too was introduced to Big Big Train by a recommendation on this site, whoever you are thank you, thank you, thank you. They are at present the only band whose new releases I truly look forward to.
I was unable to attend the live shows and I envy those who attended what must have been a very special occasion for all.
I received the DVD on Monday and it has made up in part for missing the shows. As usual anything released by BBT is a quality item in packaging and content. @niallb & @Martin S both provide quality reviews, a big thank you for doing so.