"It's not about stadiums and smoke bombs... it's about real playing," is the quote that opens Live in Dublin, Daryl Hall and John Oates' new live concert film, and I can't think of a better way to sum up the experience. Filmed at the Olympia Theatre on July 15, 2014, the Blu-ray/DVD features the duo's first-ever concert performance in Dublin. The 15-song affair features most of Hall & Oates' crossover pop chart hits, but they also dig in a bit deeper into their extensive catalog for their more hardcore fans in attendance.
"Do What You Want, Be What You Are" from 1976's Bigger Than Both of Us album makes an appearance on the setlist, as does "It's Uncanny," the opening track on the duo's No Goodbyes compilation album from 1977. As much as I enjoy seeing Hall & Oates performing hits like "Kiss on My List" and "Say It Isn't So," the lesser-known song additions were a nice touch. In the future, I'd love to see the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers bust out deeper cuts like "Open All Night" and "Intravino," if they ever decide to film another concert.
Anyone who has seen Live from Daryl's House knows the man's vocals still pack a punch, and he doesn't dissappoint on Live in Dublin. Whether it's the Philadelphia soul numbers ("Sara Smile") or the more pop-leaning '80s songs ("Out of Touch"), Hall doesn't lose a step here. Speaking of Live from Daryl's House, some of the musicians from the show also show up in the live band, including drummer Brian Dunne. He's one of the most underrated drummers out there right now, with a hard-hitting style that reminds me of Kenny Aronoff.
With stellar performances and top-notch songs, how could Live in Dublin miss?
Get It
- Amazon (Blu-ray)
