DVD Review: Cast a Long Shadow

Cast a Long Shadow captures a tribute gig to the late Joe Strummer, recorded at the Key Club, Los Angeles in December 2007.

…fans of diverse live musical performances, especially fans of Joe Strummer, would really enjoy this…

The DVD presents the musical offerings from the evening of 22^nd December 2007, showcasing a diverse mix of talent, united to celebrate the life of Joe Strummer whilst raising awareness and finances for Strummerville; a registered charity that aims to create new opportunities for aspiring musicians.

The DVD captures the quintessential gigging environment and atmosphere of The Key Club, with the tightly packed crowd up close and personal with the artists performing on the stage.

The DVD opens with a brief summary highlighting the influence Joe Strummer had on the musical community, the reason for the gig and the importance of the Strummerville charity,  before swiftly moving into the first act; “Hellride”. These were my favourite performers on the DVD, embracing direct rough and ready rock n roll, featuring Jane’s Addiction’s Stephen Perkins on drums and Porno For Pyro’s Peter Distefano on guitar & vocals.

The interesting aspect of the DVD is the diversity of musicianship on show.  Solo performances from David J and later with his band “Love & Rockets” were really enjoyable, with the latter providing a near perfect rendition of “Should I Stay or Should I Go”.

“La Plebe” graced the stage with a Latin infused Strummer tribute set and Melodee Fernandez followed with an unexpected authentic Spanish acoustic offering featuring guitar virtuoso Zander Schloss.

It was Zander Schloss who arguably stole the limelight of the gig, when his band graced the stage, led by the man himself (featuring a guest appearance from Flea on trumpet). Playing a range of classical, acoustic, 12-String and Ukulele instruments, there’s no doubt he’s an extremely talented guitarist & musician.

Summary

The musicians who performed that evening were united in respect to Joe Strummer, pledging their support to the Strummerville charity and performing a mix of songs from his back catalogue.

A fun aspect to the DVD is the rawness of the recording, embracing the atmosphere of the rocking Key Club.

I’d say that if you’re not too familiar with Joe Strummer’s music, you may find this DVD fairly hard to embrace, but I imagine fans of diverse live musical performances, especially fans of Joe Strummer, would really enjoy this.

Proceeds from the sale of the DVD benefit the Strummerville charity.