Blur: Starshaped (1994) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)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.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Blur: Starshaped (1994)

Three years of candid camera on the road with Blur, from Reading 1991 through the dark ages of the EEC in 1992 and then on to Modern Life.This 126 minute tour film features live footage including scenes from Glastonbury ’92, the Heineken Music Festival ’94 in Nottingham, and festivals in Germany, Denmark and Sweden. It is a fascinating rockumentary about the early days of one of the most influential bands of the 1990s.

Click here for more information about Blur: Starshaped (1994)