Poi Dog Pondering – Audiovisivo (DVD/CD set)

 

Picture: C+     Sound: C+/B- on CD     Extras: C-     Main Programs: C+     Music: B-

 

 

The DVD/CD combination is a new trend, even with the ever-problematic Dual Disc (CD on one side, DVD-Audio on the other) trying to break through.  One recent set features the talented-enough Poi Dog Pondering and is dubbed Audiovisivo (2004).  I liked some of what I heard and appreciate what they are doing, but both discs here seem rather limited.  The main feature of the DVD is five featurettes, and we will count the two lame music videos as extras.

 

Those badly taped clips are for Simple Song and Natural Thing, both of which comprise two of the three tracks on the CD and sound better there, plus they are without this silly video footage there, thus their relegation to “extras” status.  To repeat, if you hate Music Video, just DON’T MAKE THEM!  Spare us the torture.  Expensive clips already litter TV, why ad to the trash?

 

The main program is broken down into segments dubbed recording, conversation, back stage, light & sound and house, which is another concert clip.  Like the CD, the space left behind seems odd, as this is an opportunity for the band to get more exposure, yet there is limited content.  We can say they are doing a touch of Jazz and Electronic music with Pop sensibilities and emphasis on instrumentals, though you do get some interesting vocals.  The DVD material could have fit on a 3-inch DVD and both discs should be thought of as “singles” programs at best.

 

With that said, the full frame videotape throughout is non-HD digital and the sound is Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo with no Pro Logic surrounds, so this is a limited program that will at least give you an idea about the band and where they are coming from, somewhat.  Hope we get more next time.

 

 

-   Nicholas Sheffo