We all dream the same thing when we are going to a concert. We imagine, hope and pray that "this is the one-off show on the tour where it's all "on"". Well, this is exactly what Blackdog at Genuine Masters witnessed and documented that late-February evening in 2004 when David Bowie brought his "Reality Tour" to Melbourne.
This release is the first to surface from that Melbourne stop and it's all we are going to need. The sound is nearly perfect as it gradually improves through the first 20 minutes or so. Add to that, we are treated to a kick-ass setlist, and a show that I believe is the longest of the tour clocking in at approximately 2.5 hours! Over the course of this one, there are many gems. My personal faves include "Cactus", the best live version of "Pablo Picasso" to surface yet, and "Quicksand". Bowie and band hit the mark immediately and they don't waiver one second throughout the show. This is complete and it's the best performance you could hope for.
The accompanying image slideshow is assimilated from still shots of the official David Bowie Reality Tour DVD. Again, there is no moving video, these are stills. If there is anything to pick on here, it's with the provided imagery. The video aspect is perfect but there simply isn't enough variance of material to make it interesting. It all works but you will not feel compelled to "watch" it. After a few minutes, it all seems the same.
How cool to catch lightning in a bottle like this. It's an awesome recording of a fantastic show-not to mention it gets the magic touches for us to bring home and crank up. The title is available on 2CDR's also and they too sound incredible. An absolute must-have for any level of Bowie collector or fan.
