Blu-ray Specs:
Video: 1080i High Definition
Audio: LPCM Stereo, 5.1 Dolby Digital, DTS-HD Master Audio
First hitting the music scene in1992, this British band was named by combining the aspect of a Jam session with the Indian tribe Iroquois. Although they formed in 92, it wasn’t till 1996 that they were unveiled to the world. The sound of the group varies and has evolved over the years to the dismay of loyal fans. Although the band was formed as a group, many of the band mates have come and gone and lead man Jay Kay has been thought to front this band as a solo artist. This performance was recorded in 2003 at the Montreux Jazz Festival.
From the onset of the performance, the energy and power of the group on the audience is very apparent. Despite being created in the acid punk movement of music, the sound is reminiscent of years past with the disco era. Funky bass lines and the wacky guitar vibe rock the stage and power through the speakers. Full of energy, Jay Kay’s vocals are smooth and give the overall feel of a 70’s concert, not to mention his get up with a mirror style headdress that makes me think of a disco ball opened up. With the level of energy emanating on stage, it is amazing the length of the performance and each song is just as their name suggests, a jam session. Most of the set list has a similar vibe to the style but there were a couple of tracks that stood out, one of which is the last track “Deeper Underground” that is a phenomenal song. As a bonus their hit “Space Cowboy” is included from a previous performance from 1995 at the same venue.
The show was crystal clear and an amazing show to catch. The audio levels are just as clear, if not better than a live event. Now if you are not convinced at the quality of Blu-ray yet here is yet another example of the differences, the bonus track is not filmed in HD and there is a huge difference in both audio and visual qualities.
With the show lasting over two hours and having 16 tracks to listen to, there is no shortage of music to keep you dancing. None of the albums have done well in the US market and that may be due to the late arrival since our disco scene is much diminished. The song quality and magic of the sound was evident and could have been the soundtrack to “Saturday Night Fever”. I listened to this concert and found myself wanting to jump to my feet and join the party, with dancing and grooving.
Reviewed by Michael Albaugh
