In 1973, Lou Reed released this operatic rock album telling a story of a prostitute ravaged by drugs, depression and an abusive lover. It was thoroughly conceptual, brutal, and a commercial failure in its day, and Reed swore to never perform the album nor any of its' songs live. Over time however, opinions began to change and music tastemakers started to recognise the album's worth and 33 years later, Reed would perform the album live in its entirety (plus a few Velvet Underground encores) at St Anne's Warehouse in Brooklyn NYC - hence this Julian Schnabel-directed live concert documentary.
The power of the album's music cannot be denied, but some may be put off by the album's darker and more depressing moments, with Reed's straight-up lyrics leaving nothing to the imagination. This live performance is truly something to behold. Accompanied by a small-string ensemble, a woodwind section, a youth choir, and a very accomplished band, the resulting musical tapestry is the true star here.
This 70-minute long mood-piece is not for everyone - particularly if one is not a fan of Reed. However, as a document of a one-off musical performance,
the film succeeds on many levels. As far as this album's songs are concerned, there is definitely more value in its mystery.
A word of caution, though: do not read the lyrics while listening to the music. Oh, and some herbal "concoctions" might help too.
The power of the album's music cannot be denied, but some may be put off by the album's darker and more depressing moments, with Reed's straight-up lyrics leaving nothing to the imagination. This live performance is truly something to behold. Accompanied by a small-string ensemble, a woodwind section, a youth choir, and a very accomplished band, the resulting musical tapestry is the true star here.
This 70-minute long mood-piece is not for everyone - particularly if one is not a fan of Reed. However, as a document of a one-off musical performance,
the film succeeds on many levels. As far as this album's songs are concerned, there is definitely more value in its mystery.A word of caution, though: do not read the lyrics while listening to the music. Oh, and some herbal "concoctions" might help too.
By: Liar On The Prowl
