In 1990, Texas bluesman Stevie Ray Vaughan was just emerging from a long period in which drugs had taken their toll: the previous year's
In Step album was the first he had made drug free, and the results were a marvel. But then, after sharing a stage with Buddy Guy, Robert Cray, and Eric Clapton, he boarded a helicopter to Chicago. It crashed, and the career of one of the great blues guitarists was ended.
Rewind to 1983 and here is Stevie Ray at the beginning of his fame, his first album with his backing band Double Trouble, Texas Flood, having just been released to critical and popular acclaim. The venue is the El Mocambo club in Toronto, a dark, smoky joint with a laid-back but appreciative clientele. Vaughan, drummer Chris Layton, and bassist Tommy Shannon share the tiny stage. The guitarist, bedecked in trademark hat and alligator-skin boots, is pale of complexion, sweating from the heat and physical exertion, and physically much smaller than Shannon, who towers over him. But Vaughan dominates, as much by the magnetism of his flamboyant personality as his guitar playing. And what playing: by turns fiery, funky, then limpid and surprisingly graceful. Here is an authentic blues artist captured in the throes of living through his music. At this early stage in his career he was still very much in thrall to Jimi Hendrix (the flower-power shirt gives it away), as covers of "Voodoo Chile" and "Third Stone from the Sun" (the latter a Hendrix-inspired guitar-abuse session) indicate. The highlight of the show, however, is his rendition of "Texas Flood," which turns out to be an amazing essay on the art of blues guitar. This is a raw, intimate, and spontaneous record of a one-time event. All fans of the blues will be grateful to those who had the foresight to capture it on film. --Mark Walker
1 Yes...He played Little Wing!
Before this video was ever released, it was aired on tv up here in Canada. Stevie performed a beautiful version of Little Wing with some quiet wah wah work in the middle of the song...it was the best version I've heard.
I love this concert and it's my favorite of his video releases, but I wish Little Wing was included.
2 Passion & Tons of Tone
I have several DVDs of Stevie & Double Trouble live (Austin City Limits, Tokyo, etc) but none compare to his performance at the El Mocambo. Adjectives like blistering & searing come to mind. The intensity of his performance is quite simply...mind-boggling.
On tracks like Mary Had a Little Lamb, Pride & Joy, Voodoo Child, and in particular Texas Flood, I have never heard a guitar sound the way he makes it so am not surprised that so many, including myself, forever try to unsuccessfully emulate his tone (big frets, high gauge strings, high action, tube screamer, & even playing his signature Strat won't do it). It's no surprise why we fail. Stevie was a once in a lifetime kind of player and no better evidence exists of this than his performance at the El Mocambo.
Perhaps the venue or through plain coincidence Stevie & Double Trouble hit a special "groove" that night, after all the El Mocambo is a small, smokey, intimate venue that seems to bring out the best in performers and has excellent acoustics. Regardless of the reasons or his drug dependency which I understand was in full swing around this time, to me this is the zenith of his live performances.
This performance is also the best example of his unique playing style with plenty of closeups of his hands. Yeah, he's really pushing it and sweating up a storm but his playing also appears effortless at the same time and it is remarkable how precise he was.
Wow and how sad that he is lost to us.
3 great viewing
If you are a SRV fan you gotta have this. Hopefully you have stereo speakers hooked to your TV.
4 Wow.
At the beginning of their career in 1983, Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble played a show at the tiny El Mocambo club in Toronto. It was a normal gig, and it was only by chance that there were cameras recording it. But thank god that there were cameras rolling, because if there weren't, music fans everywhere would be deprived of this piece of history. The band plays with basically no pause whatsoever between songs. There is just no weak point at all, and every song is filled with adrenaline and emotional playing from Stevie. The two songs that stand the tallest surely are "Texas Flood," a blues EPIC- and do I mean epic-one of the greatest recordings of the electric guitar ever put to tape, and "Lenny," a slow instrumental where Stevie just goes all out; you can really see that his heart is completely in it. Also definitely worth noting are "So Excited" and Stevie's awesome cover of "Voodoo Child (Slight Return.)" Just the concert alone would be fine, but also included on the DVD is a great interview with Double Trouble about Stevie- his playing and his personality. Don't miss out. This is a must-have.
5 Absolute Magic
This DVD is life changing. To watch Stevie at the absolute top of his form is magic. Every time I watch this DVD, I feel so sad that he is no longer with us. I will be surpised if any other guitar player will ever reach the same heights. Watching the texas flood track particularly just sends shivers through me, highlighting the brilliance of SRV.
6 Stevie on top of his game!
I agree with the other reviewer...this is ESSENTIAL SRV viewing material. I've watched two other SRV DVDs--the double disc Austin City Limits and Live at Montreaux (82 & 85). The Live At Montreaux is also very very good (especially the first disc...my favorite version of Texas Flood. The second disc he doesn't look good, but still playin alright). Live At El Mocambo is just In-Your-Face, raunchy, stank goodness, to put it lightly. The whole band is ON, and the audience is loving every minute. Tons of highlights here...it's hard to not include all of em...but definitely without a doubt: Voodoo Chile, Texas Flood, and Lenny (my favorite SRV song). Please do yourself a favor...you know you need this in your collection right now!
7 Incredible!!!
The most incredible live performance I have ever seen! Voodoo Chile and Texas Flood still give me chills every time I hear them. Another reviewer said it best when he described Stevie as an "Alien". He made it look so easy. God bless you, Stevie!
8 Absolutely Incredible...
I can't even tell you how many times I've watched this video, but I can tell you that every time I've watched it, my jaw drops to the floor. The boundless energy, emotion and passion that Stevie put into his performance is nothing short of incredible...this man had hands that were touched by God!
Being a guitarist myself, my review comes mostly from a musician's point of view; but even if I weren't, I would still be amazed by this performance from beginning to end. The most awe-inspiring aspect of Vaughan was his ability to play so freely; the solos simply flowed out of him, and Eric Clapton perhaps put it best by saying that Vaughan was like an "open channel"; indeed, you never heard the same thing twice whenever Stevie played.
Another character trait of Vaughan's was his genuine humbleness; with the awesome talent that he possessed, he was a very down to earth man, even when he had reached rock bottom from his drug & alcohol addictions. He always paid loving tribute to his idols & mentors, most notably Albert King, Jimi Hendrix & Lonnie Mack; on this video, Vaughan acknowledges Hendrix in an electrifying performance of "Third Stone From The Sun", and Mack is recalled on "Wham!", where Vaughan tells the audience that this was the first record he ever bought.
But what is well worth the price of this DVD alone is Vaughan's stunning and emotional performance on the instrumental "Lenny", which was written for his then-wife. Stevie calmly sits down on the drum riser, puts a lit cigarette in his mouth, straps on a red Fender Strat and goes to work. He never opened his eyes once throughout the entire song, he only occasionally took a drag off of the smoke as it burned practically to the end. He felt every note he played and made each one count...I sat in front of the TV absolutely mesmerized and remained that way even after the video was over and the main menu had come back on.
Whether or not you're a musician, this DVD is a one of a kind and an absolute must; we will never see talent like this again in our lifetime. RIP and God bless you, Stevie Ray Vaughan!
9 Excellent Guitar Work!
I am a huge, huge fan of Stevie, and being a guitar player myself, I was totally blown away by his performance captured on this DVD. If you're lookin for some good blues/rock music, this is a great DVD to get. "Third Stone From the Sun" was pretty wild, he went kinda crazy on that one, bouncing the guitar off the floor, and whippin it all over the place. "Lenny" by far, is one the prettiest songs ever, you can really see his heart 'n' soul on this one. He played "Voodoo Chile" like nothin I've ever heard. There's some pretty kick-ass stuff throughout this whole DVD.
10 wow.
I've gone through five copies of this on VHS over the last ten years. A couple got wore out a couple were loaned and lost.
It's funny how many guitarists I run into that say this is their favorite concert video. For players, it's stunning - he's on fire (yep, he might be a little high, this was before he cleaned up) but there is no mistaking he is an alien. It all flows out of him without thought or hesitation. My humble opinion there were only two this was true, Stevie and Hendrix.
So much to be said - the thing that amazes me, try to play this. I've been watching this for 10 years and still find new things in it.
For those unfamiliar, this concert is rather raw. Looking and sounding - it was shot in some dive in Toronto. But if your a musician (or dream of being one) you can't help but be amazed at the flow and energy he puts out. I know many that worship this performance.
(I just saw Stevie Ray Live in Montreaux on DirecTV's free preview for Sept.! Just ordered the DVD too. It's not 'better' than El Mocambo, or the Austin City Limits performance - its apples and oranges - it's beautiful in its own way. VERY happy to have a new live performance to drink in. It is amazing.)
11 why sony why?
why did you release this dvd, because of money, just money... too bad it';s all about money...
12 if you doubt
August 27th 1990 will always be a sad day. I had lived in Texas for a few years, and went to the candlelight vigil in Kiest Park the day before the funeral. I had never(and still haven't) seen so many people crying in my life. But along with the sadness was a celebration of his life. There were people who he had played with in early bands who brought along pictures and told stories of the early days. I wish I could remember who they were. But it was a special night, and I won't forget it.
Tonight marks 14 years that he has been gone, but his legacy lives on. If you ever forget what a guitar genius sounds like, put this in your DVD player. The performance is second to none, and although the cameras bob from time to time, they get some great shots of his fingerwork along the fretboards. It just plain takes your breath away. In thirty years, there will be a kid sitting in his living room trying to figure out how he could play like that!
Simply put, Stevie Ray Vaughan was on a planet all his own. Buy this DVD.
13 What A Phenom...!!
As a middle aged man who first took up the guitar after seeing the Beatles on Ed Sullivan back in February 1964, I've always had a receptive ear for upcoming guitar players.
I first read about this Texas blues phenom in an old guitar magazine. And then one day, I happened to hear Pride and Joy on the radio and it literally stopped me dead in my tracks. I could not believe what I was hearing. In fact, I later heard an interview with Eric Clapton who first heard SRV on his car radio and immediately, he had to pull the car over to the side of the road and find out who this guy was. The way Eric tells it, it couldn't wait a day / week / month. It had to be that day.
So when I heard that he was playing a show at the El Mocambo in Toronto, I quickly made up my mind that I had to see this guy.
I had always had a mild interest in the blues - having been a big fan of Clapton and Hendrix, both of whose music had it's roots in the blues.
However, it was after seeing SRV that I became a disciple of the blues. That night, I saw the heart, soul and future of blues guitar in Stevie Ray Vaughan. What an incredible performer.
From my vantage point several feet away from the band, I could see Stevie's incredibly powerful looking hands / fingers bending these big strings as if they were slinky little pieces of wire. In addition to the heavy strings he used, it also looked as if he had his action set relatively high as well. For non-guitar players, I can assure you that the combination of big strings coupled with high action takes alot of hand strength to coax the sounds you want out of your guitar.
Watching this "psychedelic cowboy" that evening, it was like watching the reincarnation of Jimi Hendrix. His take on Voodoo Chile left alot of the audience, particularily the guitar players in the room, staring straight ahead with their dropped jaws in absolute amazement.
IN fact, I remember being so thoroughly taken back by Stevie that night that I just wnated to go home and trash my collection of 10 guitars. While Clapton and Hendrix, for example, had inspired me to practice and want to get better, this guy, for that evening, had the opposite effect. He was too good..!!
He would play these absolutely blistering in-your-face licks, with the nastiest tone I've ever heard and then sit back and play something as soulful as Lenny, where you could have heard a pin drop in the room. Everyone was just captived and mesmorized by his ability on the instrument.
I've subsequently immersed myself in the blues and have a huge collection of CDs now of both past and present masters. And while I have nothing but respect and admiration for the likes of Buddy Guy, BB King, Muddy Waters and so many others, I'm not sure anybody has ever or will ever be able to play the blues - with such feling and such ferocity - as Stevie Ray Vaughan.
That night, there just seemed to be a limitless reservoir of blues licks at his command. There was never a moment when he seemed to take pause and wonder where he's going to go with a particular guitar line. And yet, nothing seemed like a blues cliche.
Of course, Stevie was heavily influenced by Albert King, and you can certainly hear "Albert" in many / some of his licks / riffs, however, Stevie seemed to put his own "fingerprints" on the blues and make it his own.
It was an absolutely incredible night that I'll never forget. Many months later, Stevie returned to Toronto to play at a great old venue in this city called Massey Hall, which I also saw.
After the show, I returned to my downtown apartment. About 12:30 or so in the morning, I ran out of cigarettes and stepped out to get a pack. At that time, the streets were relatively deserted on a weekday night. However, as I was walking up Yonge Street (the main street in Toronto), I could see these three guys walking towards me just checking out the street and store windows. As I got closer, I realized it was Stevie and the other two fellows who comprised Double Trouble.
While I nodded to Stevie as we passed, I always regret not thanking him for opening up the blues to me and providing me with countless hours of listening pleasure.
A guy like this comes along maybe once every 30 years or so. And, unfortunately, like Hendrix, their stay here is sadly cut too short.!
This is a great tape of that wonderful night twenty years ago. I was lucky enough to be there to see him. But this DVD provides the next best thing.
Treat yourself to this gem - you won't regret it.
14 Best SRV live
This is the best SRV DVD out there. In fact, the day they release this as a CD, it will be the best live SRV CD. Stevie did not warm up, from the moment he walks on stage he is on fire, and never cools down. Its scary how good this guy was, he could play the blues with authority. In this DVD you not only get to listen to his amazing guitar, but also watch Stevie the showman. Good stuff!
15 Uh, Wow!
Small venue with incredible sound and imagery. The hair on your next will rise when he covers Hendrix's Voodoo Chile. You'll be floored by his later rendition of "3rd Stone from the Sun."
HOLY @#$@# this guy rocked.
16 Really is as good as people say
Better than the Austin City Limits compilation, SRV is absolutely smokin' on this. Perhaps the best blues concert recording ever. A must-have if you like SRV.
17 STEVIE RAY VAUGHAN BLOWS TORONTO AWAY!
This performance captures Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble playing a smokin' set of tunes at Toronto's El Mocambo in late 1983. In this very intimate setting, Stevie, Whipper, and Tommy play a fantastic set, a type of performance that Stevie always gave. He starts out with two instrumentals, "Testify" and "So Excited" (my personal fave). Then he goes into Jimi Hendrix's classic "Voodoo Chile (Slight Return)". After burning through "Pride And Joy", he goes through Howlin' Wolf's "Tell Me" and Buddy Guy's "Mary Had A Little Lamb". Then, the show-stopper: "Texas Flood". Almost ten minutes of textbook blues-playing, culminating with him playing behind his back. Watching him play this song is like someone punching me in the gut. Then he plays behind his head for "Love Struck Baby" and does a great cover of John Lee Hooker's "Hug You, Squeeze You". Then he has his rock-star moment with Hendrix's "Third Stone From The Sun", beating his guitar, Number One, to death on the stage. It makes one realize why Number One looked the way it did. He encores with "Lenny", a performance so beautiful and so full of passion that it would melt the most hardened blues-purist's heart. SRV then concludes the performance with Lonnie Mack's "Wham!", then sets his guitar down, says "Thank you so very much, we got's to go", and he and Double Trouble leave the stage. This performance is so fiery and intense. There is no way to describe it. You'll just have to go out and buy it. GO AHEAD! BUY IT NOW! OR ELSE! LONG LIVE STEVIE RAY VAUGHAN!
18 TAKES THE CAKE
THIS DVD CANNOT BE TOUCHED. I HAVE BEEN COLLECTING DVD`S FOR A WHILE NOW AND THIS ONE IS THE BEST I OWN. YOU WILL NOT WASTE A PENNIE ON THIS RIG. I CANNOT STOP WATCHING IT. DO YOURSELF A FAVOR AND BUY THIS PIECE.
19 Supersonic Electric Wizardry
Any guitar fans DVD collection is incomplete without Live at the El Mocambo. If you are a Stevie Ray fan and you dont own this DVD its almost blasphemous. The DVD itself provides a great selection of songs, great camera angles(for those who dig his technique) and the chance to see the greatest Texas guitarist of all time. All you have to do is put the DVD on, max out the volume and feel the music from Stevie Ray's soul to your own, just the way he wanted it and just the way it should be. Trust me, you wont be disapointed.
20 Should be called "Stevie: Raw and Unleashed"
The DVD quality is mediocre and has the look of a low budget video, which is what it was. After all this is 1983 before Stevie was "SRV". But the pure adrenaline-laced performance by Stevie is unmatched by any music DVD I have seen. If there was any question that SRV was not the greatest electric guitarist that question will be laid to rest after you see SRV play Texas Flood. The performance takes place in a small Toronto night club with a very laid back audience but you would think Stevie was playing at Woodstock. An absolutely amazing performance.
21 Stevie Ray Vaughan: Live at the El Mocambo.
An absolutely wicked DVD. I've been a huge blues fan for many years and I've seen many of the greats live. SRV's performance on this recording is second to none. The only concern I have is, will all Blues DVD's that I plan to purchase pale in comparison?
22 THE ORIGINAL SRV
THIS IS A GREAT DVD. I AM A BIG FAN OF STEVIE RAY AND I THINK THIS VIDEO SHOWS THE TONE HE HAD QUITE NICELY. THIS DVD MAKES ME WISH MORE AND MORE THAT I COULD SEE HIM LIVE. YOU SEE AND HEAR PEOPLE AND ARTISTS NOW A DAYZ THAT TRY TO IMITATE THAT TONE. ITS NO USE TO EVEN TRY BECAUSE OF THE SOUL, PASSION, AND POWER THATS QUITE NOTICABLE IN HIS GUITAR PLAYING. I RECOMMEND THIS DVD TO ANYONE. IT IS THE SLOSEST THING YOU WILL GET TO SEEING HIM LIVE.
23 Raw Early Stevie (Great)
This is a better DVD than the Austin City Limits outtakes.
It has a better song selection (and more of them).
Stevie's playing is fast and furious. The audio mix is solid. The video production is even pretty good. They simply capture the live performance from several different angles.
The interview with "Double Trouble" about their days with Stevie is enjoyable, as well.
Buy this one.
24 The REAL deal
For some reason I didnt buy this show until today, even though I had heard snippets from a friend's VHS copy- I have all of SRV's CD's.
25 Smokin' performance
This is a totally awesome performance by Stevie. If you like him at all, you'll like this DVD. The camera work captures his heart and soul in his playing and the sound quality of the recording is quite good. It was shot in a smaller club so it's a real personal, up-close performance.
Every song is good but some of my favorites are Voodoo Chile, Texas Flood, Lenny and Third Stone From the Sun. On Third Stone he does it Hendrix style and works his guitar to get all the strange sounds Jimi does, including dropping it (ouch).
26 If you don't like it, something is wrong
If you like guitar... If you like blues... If you like to close your eyes and FEEL like you ARE the music... then get this.
This is an essential item for all music lovers, this is truly a classic, and absolutely one of the best buys for anyone.
27 BEST SRV PERFORMENCE EVER!!!!!!!
Stevie Ray was a great guitarist just wacthing this DVD I cant not help but say its SRVS best performence ever. The camera angles are great wacthing SRV play you can feel the intensity the power of blues expesically on Texas Flood. As many did not know SRV could not read music he was just like Hendrix but he could play his heart out thats why I love Hendrix and SRV there my 2 favorite guitarist. SRV was a great musican if he was still alive I would have saw him in concert he was really great. My favorite songs on the DVD are Voodoo Chile(slight return), Pride And Joy, Texas Flood, Mary Had Alittle Lamb, and Lenny. This is a must have for any guitarist or SRV listener this DVD is one of the best enjoy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
28 Nothing short of amazing
A range of emotions listening to this guy, watch him do things with a guitar that arent meant to be done..... wow!
29 Marvellous
Amazing performances from the absolute king of blues,
no one could tear in to a song like stevie could i.m.h.o
I just wish they could release more DVD's from his short and outstanding recording carreer.
30 For serious SRV fans
The El Macombo is a small venue and this video was done with a small budget. SRV is great, but the sound/video quality are only average...it is also a fairly short concert. If you want to see a 5-star live performance, I would suggest Stevie Ray Vaughan: Live in Austin. That is comprised of two separate concerts and you see both in his younger, rebellious stage and his older refined stage.
31 A Rare Gem of a Performance
This video captures Stevie Ray Vaughn and Double Trouble as well as anyone could ever hope to. Bands generally divide into two categories. The vast majority do their best work in the studio and try with varied success to capture some of what they did in the studio in their live performances. Then there are those rare bands whose natural element is live performance. These bands try in the studio to capture some of what they do live. Double Trouble was definitely the second type. The performances on this video are every bit as technically proficient as anything Double Trouble ever did in the studio, but they are fluid and alive in a way that is rarely if ever captured in the studio. Incredibly, Stevie Ray Vaughn and Double Trouble were actually better live than they were in the studio, a rarity. I had the good fortune to see them live a few months before Stevie Ray Vaughn died.
I only wish there were some more SRV videos of this quality available, particularly some later ones with Reese Wynans, who I personally think made an incredibly good band even better.
If you buy only one SRV video, this is the one. Buy this one first in any case.
32 Stevie Ray Pow!
The DVD of this straightforward 1983 nightclub performance is incredible, although it is by no means a slick, made-for-video production like the Live From Austin Texas shows for Austin City Limits. Here, the camera work is severely limited by the cramped quarters and dismal lighting. And there are only minimal extras on this video that's a mere 63 minutes long.
Audio is available in both Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound, and PCM (digital) Stereo. Personally, I prefer the Stereo version. While the DD5.1 has greater spatial clarity and room ambience, the Stereo version imparts better bass punch, greater dynamic attack of the drums, and more overall sonic impact. In neither case is the audio quality quite up to top-notch modern recording standards, although it's fully acceptable.
But Stevie's playing and singing are so powerful, so intense, so thoroughly engaging, that the limitations of the recording are irrelevant. He drips with sweat playing, and I practically drip with sweat watching him. The fireworks of "Texas Flood", and the subtle stylings and fabulous fretwork of "Lenny" bookend the range of the performance. The first time through, for most of the show I wondered why Stevie was slinging such a beat up old guitar when a rack of shiny new ones hung on the back wall. When he got around to his instrument-abusing rendition of Hendrix's "Third Stone From The Sun", the reason became self-evident. While "Third Stone" is literally a show stopper, I find it the least interesting performance on the disc, which only goes to show how great the rest of it is.
No other music video or live concert audio recording that I have ever experienced does a more effective job of communicating the sheer excitement of a musician performing on stage. And more than any other recording, this one makes me want to run out to a gritty nightclub and hear some live music, ANY live music.
33 I really miss this guy!
My husband and I rented this DVD to see if it was significantly better than our WHS copy to buy. The answer is yes! Although it doesn't have all the "expected" bells and whistles of a DVD, both the picture and sound quality are much better than the VHS copy we currently own. No, it's not perfect in every way like new DVDs are, but that's not why you listen to the blues. If you're like the TV character Nash Bridges and you "still miss that guy", you owe it to yourself to get this one.
34 The ultimate SRV performance
A must have for any SRV fan. This is Stevie at his fiercest. I'm not sure I can convey how powerful his playing was. You just have to see him in action.
35 Stevie Ray's best video form his best times
Stevie Ray had a special intensity I loved in his style that I feel he lost in his latter years (you can compare "Live in Austin" first and last performances). On this video it is all one performance from his early days. The show is no frills, clean and simple SRV and Double Trouble on a small stage. The video and sound are both clean and well done. Stevie Ray Vaughan does a great job on the songs he re-does in his show (Hendrix etc.) doing them in his own intense style.
36 Best Stevie Ray DVD to own
This DVD captures Stevie Ray in 1983, when his career was just starting to take off. Unlike the other live Stevie Ray DVD (Live in Austin Texas), this is one complete show, and not broken up into different time periods. This DVD captures Stevie Ray and Double Trouble ripping through classics that would become live show staples in their future concerts ("Voodoo Chile", "Pride and Joy", Texas Flood", etc.). The sound quality and camera work are top notch, and the extras (Discography, Posthumous 1999 interview with Double Trouble about Stevie Ray, Lyrics, etc.) are all done well. I own all of the Stevie Ray DVD's (Live in Austin, El Mocambo, SRV Box Set, Tribute to Stevie Ray) and overall, I think this is the best Stevie Ray DVD to own for his fans.
37 On Par with Hendrix and Keaggy
Watching Stevie Ray Vaughan crank through tunes like "Mary Had A Little Lamb," Hendrix's "Voodoo Chile," and "Pride And Joy," helps viewers see why the world lost a par excellance guitarist when his plane crashed and killed him.
He brings electric blues to a level unmatched by most of the music world.
Familiar with his music? Own "Texas Flood"? Watching what he does will be as enjoyable as listening.
Like the guitar-work of the blues-rock of Jimi Hendrix and the Christian rock of Phil Keaggy, Vaughan demonstrates he had both the flash and technical skills to rank among the best.
In one song, he breaks the sequence a couple of times, and rips into a riff, stopping each time on the perfect note. the last time, he pauses, gives a sly, subtle grin into the camera then sears into an intense lesson on blues fingering.
I fully recommend "Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble: Live at the El Mocambo 1983."
Anthony Trendl
38 A time piece
Wonderful time piece when SRV was at his prime, yet hadn't hit bottom yet. Compare this with the live at Austin City limits, you'll really enjoy this, his performance was all for the people.
If your a Hendrix fan, you'll enjoy his version of 3rd Rock from the sun. A show stopper! Incredible. What can I say, check it out, you will not be disappointed.
39 The God of Guitar
The best guitar dvd/video ever. Nothing more to say.
40 WOW!!!
I'll keep it short. Live at El Mocambo is awesome. Word of warning though, WEAR SEATBELTS WHILE WATCHING!! If you don't you could very well be blown out of your seat!!! This is no joke!!!
41 Lucky
I feel so very lucky that film crews were there to capture this performance. Austin City Limits is a wonderful performance as well, but here at the El Macambo........... definitely worth buying.
42 the best of srv
this video is the best i have seen so far.
the style and lyrics are exelent.
the way srv played voodoo chile just blew me away.
tommy shannon and chris layton are sure to be the best band suited to srv as thay somehow keep up with srv's wild rythem and lead.
i recommend this video to anyone who is into music and even if you arn't it will be sure enough to put you back in your seat and see this bloke do the best guitar work anyone has seen.
43 UNREAL!
The energy of this performance is incredible. It really shows SRV at his best... playing in a small, smoky, room, with sweat rolling off of him as he squeezes note after note out of his guitar. The musics is so awesome, I made a cassette of the audio to listen to in my car. This performance includes some of his best versions of Mary Had a Little Lamb, Testify, and several that were previously not available anywhere else.
44 Pure Magic
What can I say, SRV was one of the most gifted and magical Guitar players and performers of our time. It is such a shame he is no logger with us. But at least we can still enjoy his work on CD and DVD. Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble: Live at the El Mocambo 1983 is a darn good show, and Stevie rocks on Testify, So Excited, Voodoo Chile, Pride and Joy, Tell Me, Texas Flood, Lenny and all the songs. The Picture looks great and the 5.1 surround sound, sounds Great. The DVD also includes the extras of lyrics, a time line, and an interview with Double Trouble. SRV was just Pure Magic.
45 Smokin
If you like Stevie Ray, you'll love this CD. If you love Stevie Ray, you'll be ecstactic. He blazes through many standard Stevie hits and puts in a couple that haven't gotten much airplay (or at all). Voodoo Chile and Texas Flood just blew me away. I really enjoyed the whole set. Good camera work and editing that both allow you to see the finger work and the theatrics.
46 Early Stevie Ray: Excellent!
If you're an SRV fan, do youself a favor and buy this video. It's incredible! This version of "Texas Flood" is worth the price alone.
I've never seen anyone put that much energy into playing the guitar. I don't mean show-off's like Vai, I mean pure energy, like Hendrix.
47 Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble: Live at the El Mocambo
Great Stevie, but the audio/video looks and sounds dated compared to all other DVD Music Concerts I own.
48 The soul of a Musician
The soul of Stevie Ray Vaughan is musician. The guitar of Stevie Ray Vaughan is a canvas upon which his creative artistry is expressed. His guitar genius is of the same spirit as if Jimi Hendrix was playing through SRV to a audience again. His interpretation of Voodoo Chile and Third stone from the Sun was the best I've heard any guitarist even attempt to play. Texas Flood, a favorite of mine, is a classic expression of the blues with a SRV experience. If you love phenomenal guitar playing, you will love witnessing this creative genius expressing his musical work of art to you through sound and song. The spirit of this musician will draw you deeper and deeper into the depth of the Stevie Ray Vaughan experience.
49 Simply Exhilirating
This has to be my favorite music video of all time, not just because I enjoy this kind of music. It's the intimate setting, the small stage, the video that seems so unobtrusive... and most of all the band plays as though the video just isn't there. The performance... must be seen. Explodes with energy -- you can see the sweat on Stevie's face while he attacks the guitar with ferocity. The selections are upbeat, pretty popular and well known songs. The video quality is very good for a recording from so long ago. The sound is also excellent and there are plenty of tracks that makes the value of the video also an excellent buy. There are some extras, which are nice, including an interview. A must have for anyone who enjoys music.
50 Buy it...NOW!!!
I have been a guitarist for many, many years, but music will never flow from my soul, or probably anyone elses for that matter, like it did from Stevie's. The guitar playing is so amazing that it is beyond what words can describe, but that's not what impresses me the most about Stevie, the man was magical, like some kind of a guitar playing, blues singing angel or something. Stevie seemed to have the ability to make you feel what he was feeling when he performed, and that is priceless. Buy this video and watch in awe, as I can almost guarantee that you will never see another musician quite like Stevie again, even if you live to be a thousand years old. Every time I think about the fact that this special man is gone I have to hold back on the tears, that's how special that Stevie was.
51 Electrifying Early Performance
As a long-time resident of Austin, I had the privilege of seeing the incomparable Stevie Ray perform live on four occasions, but never in a setting as intimate as this. With just one album behind him, SRV takes the stage at this legendary Toronto club and wins a room full of new converts. Of course, it goes without saying that the guitar playing is the main focus, and Stevie turns in a typical performance - that is to say, he plays the ax with such wizardry that 99.9978% of us can only watch with our jaws down on the floor. Watching SRV in such an early performance, I was surprised to see that he had already found the distinctive sound he would forever be known by. The last time I got to see the master, I was late for an Astrodome show featuring the Fabulous Thunderbirds, SRV, and the Who. Running inside to find my seat, I could hear the crowd roaring. Oh, no, I thought, I've missed the opening acts entirely and the Who is already on stage. Turning the corner, though, I saw Stevie Ray, wailing away, with 40,000 people in the palm of his hands. God bless, Stevie - you were a good one.
52 What a loss. RIP Stevie Ray.
If your a fan of Stevie Ray's music but never got to see him live in concert (i.e. myself), you simply must buy this. It's in listening to him AND watching him at the same time that you really get the full effect--you REALLY see how talented this man was. Say what you will about Hendrix; I'll always believe Stevie Ray Vaughan was the true master of the Stratocaster. He had complete control over the guitar--watching how he attacked those strings is incredible. He man-handled it and he *made* it sound like he wanted it to. Guitar players for generations to come will be trying to make their guitars sound like his, and they will fail. This video is proof of why--TONE IS IN THE HANDS.
Whether you're a guitar player or not, buy this and prepare to be blown away.
53 Fantastic!!! But...
Fantastic DVD!!! But...the producers left out Stevie's cover of Little Wing. This session is an extremely important piece of music history and every recorded minute should have been included. I noticed that they included the song on the UK release. Unfortunately the UK version has region 2 encoding and will not play on US players. So why not have it on the American version? This is what happens when you have a bunch of suits making artistic decisions! Aaagg!!
54 The Greatest Live Guitarist Performance Ever Recorded
I can't even begin to describe the passion, virtuosity, and raw blues force contained in this amazing performance from the El Mocambo in Toronto back in 1983. There is no way to watch this without feeling both spiritually lifted and drained knowing that you will never have the chance to see this genius at work again.
Although SRV uses "props" like playing behind his back, above his head, etc., they only intensified the experience because he could play as well while doing those things as anyone alive can straight-up. Texas Flood, Voodoo Chile and Lenny are just beyond belief.
Complaints about the sound mix, lighting, etc. come from people who just don't get it. This is about owning a piece of SRV's soul, which was limitless and impossible to imitate in a performance like this. If you get it, GET THIS.
55 The best fretboarest ever!
A MUST! Stevie is amazing. Watching him play will leave you in awe. He is a master of the guitar and it shows in this DVD. The sound is very good, and the camera shots are awesome. They did a great job of capturing his fret board work which is second to none. He puts his heart and soul into every song, and it shows. The solos are unbeleivable! There is nothing that SRV can't do with a guitar. An absolute must have for Blues and Rock fans. And, if you are not a big fan of Stevie now, you will be after watching this.
56 Fantastic..... But....
The only thing I've noticed about this DVD/Video, especially channeled through a very good audio system - is that there seems to be slight gaps in the audio: a slight hiss.
But, one has to figure the quality of the audio equipment at the time of the performance. This in no way reflects on the performance.
SRV and Double Trouble's sound at this time in their careers is gritty. There is (and always was) immense passion in their music. If anything, it solidifies the fact that SRV was an experienced, mature player - long before he ever burst on to the Blues/Rock scene. There is a looseness here, that makes the show enjoyable.
This rendition of "Lenny" is one of the best you'll hear anywhere. Stevie was in the zone that night....
57 "HUMBLE BUT NOT WEAK."
(Quote above about Stevie by Tommy Shannon, the bassist.)
Straight up, I must say this is ESSENTIAL VIEWING! One can tell Stevie and the band thrive in this type of a small, intimate setting.
One of the things I love most about Stevie is HE DOESN'T HOLD ANYTHING BACK! He FLOWS! Stevie is so comfortable and natural in expressing himself...the fans around the world must surely see his inner beauty and SOUL--truly Breathtaking and Magnificent! Stevie is Spectacular to watch because of this inner beauty and SOUL which is fully expressed by his guitar mastery. The guitar is the conduit of what Stevie has in his heart--truly. TRULY! And what a HEART it IS. THERE ARE NO WORDS TO EXPRESS ALL OF THE BEAUTY I FEEL WATCHING HIM PLAY HIS MUSIC! I'LL CHERISH THIS DVD ALWAYS!
A comment on the rapport he has with Tommy and Chris--it's so beautiful to witness. They fuel off each other and the audience; the energy shared...Wow!
EVERY SINGLE SONG ON THIS DVD IS EXCEPTIONAL-- I LOVE 'EM ALL! I believe you will too! (Ok, here are some favorites: "Voodoo Chile", "Pride and Joy", "Tell Me", "Mary Had a Little Lamb", "Love Struck Baby", "Hug You Squeeze You", "Third Stone From the Sun" and "Lenny.")
The DVD special features are exceptional: you can turn on the lyrics or off, and the interview with Tommy and Chris in October 1999 is worth the purchase price even if there wasn't a show on the DVD! Trust me on this, you must hear this interview!
Here are the chapter titles from the interview: "Playing el Mocambo", "A different show every time", "Triple Threat", "Steve Onstage," "Stevie's Persona" (loved this one!), "What people loved about Stevie (Tommy and Chris both share their impression of meeting Stevie for the first time.), "Stevie's Gift", "Behind the Guitar", "Playing with the greats," "Stevie's influence", "Electricity and Stevie" (adore this one too! Looks like Stevie and I have something in common! Not joking!) and lastly "Stevie's Legacy."
IF YOU LOVE STEVIE, THIS IS A MUST-OWN! Even if you don't, by the time you are done watching this DVD, you will. Stevie will never be forgotten and he will never die.
HIS SPIRIT AND HIS MUSIC LIVE ON.
58 good fidler
Stevie is my hero. Rock and Roll and Blues rule...Stevie rules, expecially in this video. This is the most intensely played set that I've ever seen anyone do. Man what a thrill it would have been to actually be there for this blazing performance. A previous review claims that you might find yourself "laughing in awe" at his raw talent. This is entirely true. You can feel him working into the most impossible progressions and scales along the fretboard of his guitar. You can anticipate them and when he completes a run you can sense a feeling of approval from the fallen guitar god. Buy this,...get DVD if you want a real punch.
59 Great sounding SRV, poor sounding DVD.
I passed on the "Live in Austin, TX" DVD because I saw this one had 5.1 surround sound, while "Austin" didn't. I've always been under the assumption that you can't go wrong with a 5.1 mixed DVD, but El Macambo's poor sound quality has proved me wrong. I found the 5.1 version not even worth listening to as it sounds like Stevie and the boys are playing in a box of Kleenex. Nevertheless, the Stereo version does a well enough job of supporting a SMOKING set by the legend, SRV. All the tracks from this show are solid, as Stevie seems to be at his best. Buy it for the great music and nice extras (lyrics, interviews) but beware the horrible surround sound.
60 It's perfect.
There isn't much else to say. Voodoo chile is better here than on his records. Hug You Squeeze you isn't on his records as far as I know. Seeing him do it is a million times better than listening. If you haven't seen him do a show, and you're a fan. You can't be dissappointed by this so buy it. Texas Flood is literally amazing. Lenny is perfect. I didn't get third stone from the sun till I saw it. The perfect way to understand his music and his showmanship even in this small setting. Tommy Shannon and Chris Layton are great but they're obviously way behind SRV no matter how competent they are. This album is awesome and it's perfect. Not a single flaw. Stevie Ray was bigger than life, especially here. He's tapped in, and you have to see him and feel it to believe it. 63 minutes.
P.s. I am extremely angry if he really did do Little Wing on this concert and some fool cut it out. I'd buy it again if they released it with that song on it. We Love you Stevie!
61 Pure and intense SRV
This was an energetic and fun-filled evening with SRV at the peak of his talent. Compare these licks and antics to Jimi, Eric, Carlos, and Jimmy P. in their prime and I don't think you could rate one above the other. No disappointments here, just a sense of wonder at how SRV could play that geetar.
62 No words do Stevie justice.......
Ok, I'm obsessed, remember that. Aside from my one and only daughter, there is no other more beautiful human being than Stevie Ray, and Stevie live at the El Macambo shows you all of that beauty. Whoever the brilliant camera person was, I want to thank you!!!!!
Everyone has said it here, from the most awesome guitar performance ever (IMHO!) to the pleasure of watching Stevie's grace, ease, facial expressions, the occaisonal surprise smile,and putting his voice together with the movement of his talent, body and soul makes this video the best.
Live in Austin and Pride and Joy are both excellent, but this is a must must have! & keep & play over and over :o)
63 Stevie's Best, But the DVD Could Use Some Work
There is nothing like seeing great blues in a small club. Stevie has done a lot of great live work (except while in the depths of his drug abuse), but this video is the pinnacle of what he was capable of. This small club in Toronto, with rowdy fans has more energy and fire than any arena, stadium or theatre could match.
This was also a musical high point of Stevie's career. He was older than the "In the Beginning" disc (also taken from a small club), and his playing reflects it. He was more fluid and confident, and you can see that he was REALLY feeling "it" the night of the El Mocambo show. I have never heard or seen a better rendition of Texas Flood. I have never even seen a beter blues guitar performance by anyone on any song compared to it. The versions of Tell Me, Wham!, So Excited, Testify, Voodoo Chile, Mary Had a Little Lamb, and Lenny also are the best I have heard from any recording (official or bootleg) of Stevie's.
As for the DVD, it could use some work. I noticed, in comparison with the VHS version, the mixers have brought the volume down a bit on Stevie's guitar, while making the low end sounds more prominent. This takes away from the power of Stevie's performance a bit. They also still have not included the version of Little Wing that was performed right before Third Stone From the Sun! Please! Include it, I will buy the DVD again! On a bright note for the DVD, the interview included is quite interesting, with Tommy and Chris' thoughts and relflections on Stevie and the night of the El Mocambo show.
All in all, I would still get the DVD over the VHS copy. But regardless, every fan of the blues, Stevie, and/or guitar should buy this video. Ever hear Eric Clapton describe Stevie as an open channel, in which musical ideas just flowed through him? This video is proof, and it is amazing.
64 WHAM!
Lest you should ever forget what rock 'n' roll was originally all about, and what it still IS meant to be all about, check out this eye-popping performance from a young and unknown Stevie Ray Vaughan. The guitar playing world in 1983 was heading in two directions: electronic buffoonery of the worst order from the likes of those dullards Satriani and Vai, and directionless "energy and raw power" school of thought, populated by idiots who couldn't play their instruments and didn't understand any better what this wonderful medium is all about. Oh, it makes me so ANGRY to even think about it.
So exactly what Stevie Ray Vaughan and his merry men thought they were up to in that sort of context is anyone's guess. But who cares - all I can say is THANK THE LORD. From the first second of the show, shimmying in from stage-right, Stevie pulverises the stage, his instrument, his face and the crowd with the most gut-wrenching sonic assault I have ever seen or heard. Outstanding though most of his studio albums may be, you have no idea - really, none - of the energy - the man's sheer brute strength - the power of Stevie Ray Vaughan's playing until you see it unfold before you, even on a slightly tinny video. And WHAT he plays is inconceivably brilliant. You will shake your head in wonder.
Hendrix, the great deconstructor himself, is pulled apart limb from limb and ghoulishly re-arranged like the victim of some crazed serial killer. Lonny Mack is gunned down the straight like an over-powered dragster. SRV's wife Lenny is eulogised, sweat cascading down face, as the man gets through a whole smoke in one go without taking it out of his mouth. Even if you don't like his music the video is worth getting simply for Mr Vaughan's legendary facial expressions, and the marathon take on Texas Flood will do you till Tuesday week. Truly, TRULY outstanding.
You should just SEE the looks on the faces of those lucky Canadians in the audience.
65 Great performance, but audio/video quality is mediocre
I love SRV, and this is a good DVD, but not a great one. The audio quality is mediocre, as to be expected given when and where it was made. If you love Stevie, but this DVD. I like it even given it's faults. I just wish we could have a modern day made DVD of Stevie.
Stevie, where ever you are, thanks for the great music!
66 SRV LIVE
YOU BETTER STRAP YOUR SEAT BELT ON WHEN YOU WATCH THIS ONE SRV GOES ALL OUT GIVING 100% IN THIS LIVE COVERAGE HE WAS A GUITAR GENIUS!!!
67 5 Stars Aren't Enough!
I'm an aspiring 17 year old blues guitarist, and I've been in love ith SRV's style, ever since I first heard him play. This video was the appitomy of Stevie.. I especially liked the part where he was going into a solo, and took his hat off (not missing a note), set it on the stand, and really went full force into the solo, he gave it everything he had, and then he put the hat back on his head, without missing a note! This movie is a MUST have, for any SRV fan! or SRV lover, such as myself! Enjoy!
68 Thank you Stevie
I never had any significant degree of aprreciation for SRV's music or blues in general until I saw this video, some eight years ago. That has all changed now. Truly a moving & enlightening, if not inspiring experience. I have SRV and particularly, this live performance, to thank for awakening in me, an undying appreciation for the blues.
I think Robert Cray said it best when he said (& I'm paraphrasing) "for a long time coming there's gonna be alot of frustrated guitarists trying to pick up on Stevie's stuff."
** See this video & you'll understand. **
69 s.a.b.
smoke a bowl and watch el mocambo...
70 Jimi Hendrix Reborn
I haven't seen "Stevie Live" before until my friend recommend for me. It's the great sound and good camera edition live. He played like a part of his body and soul like Hendrix. Don't waste the time in eric clapton's style(except Cream). Just buy it.
71 MIND BLOWING
THIS VIDEO IS BY FAR THE MOST POWERFUL SRV VIDEO'S OUT THERE. THE ATMOSPHERE IS TO GOOD TO BE TRUE WITH A SMALL CROWD IN A DIMMLY LIT BAR ROOM AND THIN HAZE OF CIGGARETE SMOKE, AND NOT MENTION STEVIE PLAYING BONE SHAKING RIFF'S THAT WOULD BRING ANY GUITAR ENTUSIAST TO THER KNEES. THE VIDEO QAULITY IS GOOD AND THE SOUND QUALITY IS GREAT BUT MOST IMPORTANT THE ENERGY IS INTINSCE. THIS IS A MUST BUY
72 Good, but not CLASSIC Stevie
Stevie was greatest in 1989 when he was sober....songs like "Tightrope" show that. IF you want a good SRV DVD, get "Live in Austin, Texas"
73 the most talented guitarist
He is the best guitarist that has ever lived. His guitar playing is touching, and in fact, whoever has known SRV will agree with me.
74 inspired
SRV is undeniably one of the great live bluesmen. What sets this DVD apart from every other concert is the camera. It is unique in that unlike many concerts you see the musicians actually playing their instruments! It is not just the lead singer's head and two crowd shots for an hour. This is a small club and it shows, the whole vibe as well as the sound is incredible. Any guitarist can learn a lot from this. I will never tire of this.
75 BUY THIS NOW!
I have been a huge fan since the beginning but the person that turned me onto this video was not. But even for someone who does not like the blues he was thoroughly blown away by this performance. This is one of the most amazing shows one could ever hope to witness EVEN IF YOU DONT LIKE THE BLUES! From the get-go SRV rips it up with Testify. Every song thereafter is a bonus:So Excited,Voodoo Chile(there were only two people that could do this song justice Jimi and SRV),Pride & Joy, Tell Me, Mary Had a Little lamb, Texas Flood, Love Struck Baby, Hug You, 3rd Stone,Lenny and WHAM. You will find yourself laughing in awe of how truly great a SRV show could be. In an age when "rock stars" put on a "show" this video is raw musical performance without any back tracks or effects. It's just a man and his guitar. I can say without a doubt this is one the greatest buys you can ever make and I will say it again-Even if you don't like the blues! Buy this video and play it as loud as you can, you will not be disappointed.
76 Will blow you away
If you want to watch a master at work, you'll love this DVD. The sound was superb and the camera shots were great. The man was a true genious.
77 The best uncut Stevie Ray Video ever
If you want to see Stevie in concert without all the editing and cutting up of his performance the way it was made to be.. Then this ones for you...
78 This DVD is absolutely amazing!
This DVD shows just how talented Stevie Ray Vaughan was. The only word I can think of is WOW! He starts out smokin' and never lets up. The music flows from his soul directly into his guitar effortlessly. There are a few times you think he's gonna sing the next verse of a song, but he steps back instead and lays into his guitar some more. It's pure perfection as only Stevie could have done. I can't say enough about this DVD. It's a must for any SRV fan.
79 Stevie Ray Vaughan : Live at the El Mocambo
I bought this video many moons ago and it is getting a bit worn out by now, it is the most uplifting musical experience I have ever had. The sound that comes from the man himself, Chris Layton on drums and Tommy Shannon on the Fender bass is unbelievable. I have taken this video to parties, conferences and places where blues is not generally appreciated and every one with the exception of one or two "Oddballs" was totally blown away. As another reviewer said, get some friends and some brew together and play it preferably through some Hi Fi real loud. If it does not bring a tear to your eye you should check that you still have a pulse! YOU MUST BUY THIS VIDEO. Thankyou.
80 Stevie Ray Vaughan : Live at the El Mocambo
I bought this video many moons ago and it is getting a bit worn out by now, it is the most uplifting musical experience I have ever had. The sound that comes from the man himself, Chris Layton on drums and Tommy Shannon on the Fender bass is unbelievable. I have taken this video to parties, conferences and places where blues is not generally appreciated and every one with the exception of one or two "Oddballs" was totally blown away. As another reviewer said, get some friends and some brew together and play it preferably through some Hi Fi real loud. If it does not bring a tear to your eye you should check that you still have a pulse! YOU MUST BUY THIS VIDEO. Thankyou.
81 Stevie Ray Vaughan:Live at the El Macambo
Music lovers must own this video!If you like Stevie Ray, you'll love this video.IT ROCKS!Performed in this little bar in Canada, Stevie Ray pulls out all the stops and gives the performance of a lifetime, and you've got a front row seat.Playing some of his own classics as well as some Hendrix tunes, Stevie makes his guitar scream and wail like only he could.I would buy this show on an audio CD if I could.Buy this DVD, you WILL NOT be disappointed!
82 stevie ray vaughan:live at the el macambo
Music lovers must own this video!If you like Stevie Ray, you'll love this video.IT ROCKS!Filmed at this little bar in Canada, Stevie Ray gives the performance of a lifetime and you've got a front row seat.Playing some of his own classics as well as some Hendrix tunes, this is a show you must see to believe.Stevie makes his guitar scream and wail like only he could.I would buy this show on a audio CD if it was available!Buy this DVD, you WILL NOT be disappointed!
83 stevie ray vaughan:live at the el macambo
Music lovers must own this video!If you like Stevie Ray, you'll love this video.IT ROCKS!Filmed at this little bar in Canada, Stevie Ray gives the performance of a lifetime and you've got a front row seat.Playing some of his own classics as well as some Hendrix tunes, this is a show you must see to believe.Stevie makes his guitar scream and wail like only he could.I would buy this show on a audio CD if it was available!Buy this DVD, you WILL NOT be disappointed!
84 Stevie Smokin'
Buy this video, Stevie absolutely smokes! Wait until you see how he makes his strat scream and wail. Some of the licks will send shivers down your spine.
85 Live at the El Mocambo......AMAZING
This is the best live stuff from SRV that I have seen. He is #1 on my top guitarists list of all time! Anyone who is tempting to buy it should just buy it. It is something you won't regret. One of his best guitar solos ever is on this tape in "Texas Flood". Sound quality is also excellent. BUY IT!
86 Blues excellence for the next millenium
People, if you have one shred of appreciation for blues, this video is your Bible. Watch this tape, and witness what Hendrix coulda been. Absolute intensity...sit down with some friends and brew, and be prepared to be blown away. Three words: JUST BUY IT
87 Incendiary fretwork from SRV!
This is, quite simply, one of the most amazing live performances ever caught on film. This tape catches SRV firing on all cylinders just as his star was beginning to shine, before he fell victim to his success.
Performing in a small, sweaty nightclub in Toronto, SRV serves up an encyclopedia of licks that range from the lyrical and sublime to the simply amazing. All will have you scraping your jaw up off the floor (check out Texas Flood, ferchrissakes! ;-)
Like only a handful of guitarists before or since (Jimi Hendrix and Carlos Santana among them), SRV seemed to have a direct line from his soul to his fingers and music seemed to flow forth effortlessly from him... like a flood.
We lost Stevie Ray twice, first to drugs, and then for good. This tape serves as a permanent reminder to all of what made him so special.
88 SRV Must Have
I am quite happy with this disk. The 5.1 sound is excellent. The video is very good but not great; the issue being the simplistic camera angles - remember this was filmed in a bar 16 years ago.
The real joy of this disk is of course the performance, SRV before his excess of the mid 80's. The playing is fluid and graceful and gives us an insight into one of the greatest guitarists since Hendrix. Speaking of Hendrix, the version of Third Stone SRV does is a real high point of the show.
In short if you like SRV you will not be disappointed with this disk.
89 Wow...
Of any official or bootleg release on any format that I have seen or heard (and there have been many), this still stands as the greatest I have ever witnessed of the man. I have never seen anything more intense. If you want to see the best display of technical prowess and raw emotion (ie. the best blues guitar playing ever), buy this video.
90 SRV on his way up.
This video captures SRV & Double Trouble performing in a nightclub before most of us had ever heard of them. The tight close-up shots capture the energy and the intensity,while the smoke-filled party-like atmosphere provide the perfect setting for this raw high octane blues. The crowd reaction says it all. SRV andDouble Trouble were on their way to bigger things, and this gig shows why!!!
91 Stevie Ray`s best Live Peformance
Stevie Ray`s best Live Peformance.A real personal performance,shot at a small Night Club.A must to view for all SRV fans.
92 STEVIE RAY VAUGHAN WILL LIVE FOR EVER
I KNOW A GUY I CANT GIVE HIS NAME BUT HE IS A MUSICIAN ALSO. HE LOVES STEVIE RAY AND HE CAN ALSO DRAW PICTURES OF HIM AND HIS INITINALED GUITER. STEVIE RAY WILL LIVE ON FOR EVER AND HE WILL BE SOARLY MISSED. BEST WISHES TO HIS FAMILY. REST IN PEACE STEVIE RAY VAUGHAN
93 Stevie Ray at his best!!
Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble provide a astounding mix of great originals such as "Pride and Joy", and my favorite, "Texas Flood". As well as great classics like Jimi Hendrix "Third Stone From the Sun". This video is a great glipse at the power and energy that was Stevie Ray.
94 Stevie Ray shows what he is made of
Just hearing a CD is not enough you can see where the music comes from and also witness the intensity of the musician. He takes Voodoo Child to a new dimension. A tremendous experience. Also I reccommend the Japan Video but I can't find it to buy anywhere. He brings his peace pipe fully loades.
95 Good, but not THE best SRV...
SRV was a great guitarist; and let's face it, he was better in the late 80's than the early 80's. If you are a SRV fan or a Blues lover, get "Live from Austin Texas" instead.
96 A Butt Kicker!
This video captures an evening relatively early in the career of the late, great SRV and is nothing short of phenomenal. Doubtless one of the best guitarists of his time, this video serves to remind all of us of just how magical a musician he was. God, what a loss...
97 Stevie Ray at his best
I must say that this video truely shows SRV and all his glory. This video is spimply a must for any who loves true guitar slingers. I have seen tons of Stevie Ray footage and this is probabaly this best video recorded in the days of the power trio Double Trouble. Five stars isn't enough for Stevie in this performance. He needs at least five tousand stars!
98 Possibly the best blues guitarist to ever play!
The small room, the loud crowd, and up close shots of Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble provide a very intimate like atmosphere that make you feel as if you were there with him at the El Mocambo. Quite possibly my favorite video, of my all time favorite performer. A must have for any fan of SRV and/or pure blues played from the soul.
99 A real barn-burner!
Non-stop, hard-driving blues that's over way too soon. If you like riveting, top-shelf blues then this is a must. Only Stevie can deliver this kind of satisfaction.
100 one kick*** video
there is nothing like a live set of great playing.and this is one video you must see & have.and the way he treats that guitar during third stone from the stone is out of site.
