Starshaped

Rating:
Summary: blur before
Review: finally, the dvd that documents an early blur. previously available only on vhs, Starshaped follows blur through european festivals and pre Great Escape period, though i've only seen the vhs tape purchased in Japan, i remember the Stonehenge moments, the P.A. falling on damon's foot and the hilarious comments of graham following the rocker's (goth) "interview" after a show, a great "For Tomorrow" clip.

Rating:
Summary: Defective DVD?
Review: I'm a fairly dedicated Blur fan, so it seemed that I'd enjoy this DVD. The only problem was the sound...which was mostly distorted and sounded like it was "static-y", for lack of a better term. After watching it a few times, I went to the fan site www.blur.co.uk and in the forums found that many others had experienced the same problem. Apparently "Starshaped" was originally realeased on VHS when this footage was first captured in the early 90's and the VHS version has much better sound, confirming that the sound isn't just "raw", as it is live concert footage. One theory is that the sound was not correctly "mastered" when this DVD was produced, hence it is likely a problem on all copies of this DVD.

I do have to say that the US version of the video for "There's No Other Way" was good (it's a hidden easter egg - click on the star in the top level menu). But I couldn't justify spending $13-14 for just one music video.

I have returned the DVD for a refund.

Rating:
Summary: Their best period now on DVD
Review: The period documented by this newly refurbished DVD re-release of "Starshaped"--roughly 1991-93--was without a doubt one of the highlights in the history of this now-venerable UK act. Fresh from their initial flush of success, but before they became ubiquitous superstars, "Starshaped" features some spirited live performances and backstage footage that offers a more intimate look at the group than their Best Of collection of videos. The camera focuses most naturally on frontman Albarn, although time is also given to Graham Coxton's quirky and likeable personality, as he cheerily complains of headaches, dehydration and the effects of being on sedatives.

Some fine footage of "Colin Zeal, "Popscene", "For Tomorrow" and "Day After Day" garnish the original video, now with added
concert footage from Kilburn and the Princess Charlotte in '91.
The band is in transition from its earlier, trancy, Stone Roses-influenced sound to the Kink-esque form of "Modern Life Is Rubbish", but it all sounds like excellent guitar-pop with
a heavy psychedelic rush, loving social comment and and topped by Albarn's signature vocal style. He certainly doesn't lack energy throughout, and frequently gets himself into trouble with his on-stage shenanigans (ie when the PA falls on his foot), giving the film at times a Spinal Tap quality (they even visit Stonehenge), although it's all with tongue well in cheek. Blur were probably at their most likeable at this stage, an up-and coming group who would conquer the UK in only a year's time from the release of "Starshaped", a document which certainly gives ample enough justification for their rise and whose US release is now very welcome.