Search - Chris Isaak: The Best of Chris Isaak on DVD

Commentary over music videos? It works!

Albert G. Smith Jr. | Daytona Beach, Fl USA | 05/16/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I purchased and reviewed the CD / DVD combo set, but since the DVD can be bought alone, I will review it here to help those considering it. Thinking about it? Get it!



This DVD is very well done. Technically, it is basic 2.0 stereo, which was a bit of a let down in a world of 5.1 surround sound, but this is not a limitation. I played the disc in 2.0 through just two speakers and it sounded pretty good. I then set my receiver to Dolby Pro-Logic II, and the sound got even better. It might not be true 5.1, but the music engulfed me and was very balanced from all six of the speakers. In short, as I said, the rendering is not a limitation for listening enjoyment. The visuals are clear and sharp. The navigation is well thought out and intuitive.



One very unusual thing for a music DVD is the inclusion of the artist's commentary for each song. I thought this might be some ego driven thing, but no. Chris Isaak is very funny. He has a dry, self-depreciating style of humor that is devoid of ego. The music alone is great, but the commentary is also terrific. Besides the commentary during the songs, also check out the "preamble", where Isaak very cleverly makes light of the production value. While watching very low tech pencil drawings of Isaak and his band in the studio, hear Issak's voice saying, "we were going to use film, and then hand puppets, then they gave me this pencil." And his request to the viewer about to watch the videos which span many years, "While watching the videos, see if you can see when in out career we became bitter." Funny stuff in the context of the visual.



The bottom line, this is a fine "get to know Chris Isaak" disc for the uninitiated, and for fans, a chance to hear and watch the music from this talented group. You might also find, as I have, that he is also a very funny guy.

"

Great videos and very funny commentary!

Laura | california | 05/11/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I was skeptical about buying this DVD at first because I am not a fan of music videos in general. I am, however, a big fan of Chris Isaak. So I decided for the great price, I would go ahead and buy it. And now I am so glad I did!



There are 18 music videos on here, and those are all great. But by far the best part of this DVD is the audio commentary. There is commentary for each and every video, and it is absolutely hilarious! For those of you who don't know, Chris Isaak is quite funny. I was literally laughing out loud at some of the stuff he says. I popped it in yesterday when I got it thinking I would just watch a couple of the videos to hear what he has to say about them, and I could not turn it off!



Great singer, great music, great videos and a great price. It is more than worth it for any fan of Chris. He will have you laughing within the first two minutes without a doubt!"