Artist: Billy Idol
Title: State Line: Live At The Hoover Dam (MVD Visual)
Tell me more: Following its successful limited theatrical run, Billy Idol's historic and rousing performance at the Hoover Dam in April 2023 is now available on both DVD and Blu-ray (the latter reviewed here) courtesy of MVD Visual. The aptly-titled State Line: Live At The Hoover Dam chronicles the first-ever concert ever performed at the dramatic setting located on the Nevada/Arizona state line; Idol along with his terrific band and several notable guests are definitely up for the occasion and the film and bonus features collectively capture every moment of the event. The audio and video quality on the Blu-ray are truly outstanding and the viewer is treated to a front row seat at every turn. Directed by George Scott and Vincent Adam Paul, the highlight of the title is the 16-track full length concert where Idol performs a mix of his enduring rock hits and compelling new songs.
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Billy Idol performing at the Hoover Dam.
Photo credit: Jane Stuart
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Kicking things off with a hard rocking "Cradle of Love," Idol and the troupe of other musicians and backup singers are obviously having as much fun as the intimate crowd of 250 fans treated to attend the show in person. Sex Pistols guitarist Steve Jones and No Doubt bassist Tony Kanal join in the fun on "Dancing With Myself." There is not a single wasted moment during the performance; early standouts include the dynamic "Flesh for Fantasy" (featuring spectacular guitar work from Idol's longtime guitarist Steve Stevens), the reflective mid-tempo rocker "Bitter Taste," and semi-acoustic "Eyes Without a Face" where Idol showcases his strong vocals. Late performance highlights include a strong performance of "John Wayne" with Idol sharing lead vocals with singer Alison Mosshart (The Kills, The Dead Weather), the confessional melodic rocker "Running From The Ghost," spirted extended version of "Blue Highway," and rousing closer "White Wedding."
Bonus features include an exclusive Q&A with Stevens and an acoustic performance of "To Be A Lover," "Eyes Without a Face" and Rebel Yell." There is also a colorful six-panel concert booklet. Information: billyidol.net.
Robert Kinsler
