Brubeck
Returns to Moscow
Picture: C+
Sound: C+ Extras: C+ Film: B-
It is certainly fascinating how music can be considered a
freedom, yet as an American I suppose it’s something taken for granted. Russians on the other hand did not always have
the same privileges and this particular program entitled Brubeck Returns to Moscow demonstrates just that. Filmmaker Daniel Wilson was able to capture
the mood and atmosphere of the rehearsal leading up to the performance as the
Dave Brubeck Quartet return to Moscow after being banned for decades as was all
Jazz music.
The Quartet is teaming up here with the Russian National
Orchestra to play at the renowned Bolshoi Hall of the Moscow Conservatory of
Music. This is without a doubt a once
in a lifetime moment to capture! This
is not just a momentous moment because of all the tension, but also because
Jazz had never been played in this classical venue EVER. Well, I suppose Brubeck is the ideal choice
for making that happen.
The bulk of the program is devoted to the leading up to
the actual performance and captures some interesting and candid moments. Jazz fanatics will find this completely
poignant and fascinating for sure.
Technically the DVD from Koch is so-so.
The full frame 1.33 X 1 image has a dated appearance and gets the job
done, but nothing stunning by any stretch of the imagination. Sound is only available here in 2.0 Dolby
Digital Stereo, which is disappointing since this music program could use a
nice 5.1 remix.
Extras are a nice treat though, which make up for some of
the technical setbacks. The highlight is a candid interview with Russian
journalist and TV personality Vladimir Posner in which Dave Brubeck discusses
the difference in the Russian government's attitude towards Jazz in the past
and now plus other topics ranging from religion, black roots in Jazz and world
peace. This also covers some of
Brubeck’s recollections over the past 50 years as being a pianist/composer and
a well-revered Jazz master.
All in all this is a fairly good program that will
entertain most musical minds, of course Jazz fans will find this more
interesting and hopefully everyone can better appreciate the freedoms they have
in all aspects, especially in music!
- Nate Goss
