Search - Marvin Gaye - Live in Montreux 1980 on DVD

K. K. (GAMER)
Reviewed on 8/20/2017...

Dated but some good tunes from the past.

EXCELLENT Performance, minor audio flaws

Glenn Fink | Arlington, VA United States | 10/25/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This DVD starts off (after an intro piece) with the best version of "Got to Give It Up" you'll ever hear. As a previous reviewer mentioned, there are some minor audio flaws at the very beginning of the concert - almost all during this piece. It doesn't matter to me. They were all taken care of as they arose within a half minute, and frankly, except for missing the first 20 seconds or so of David Li's sax solo, they don't bother me. But the *performance* - man! What an amazing show. Of course since it happened in 1980 there are some dated fashions displayed onstage, and some funny moments, but this band is having a good time and the show is stupendous. You just couldn't ask for a better group to back Marvin.

I've brought this disc over to friends who aren't that up on Marvin Gaye, and I've made them fans. The man is on fire on this night, and appears completely at ease with the audience and keeps them in the palm of his hand throughout the evening. There's a version of "Come Get to This" which I think is superior to the version on Let's Get It On, a great medley of Tammi Terrell duets preceded by Marvin grabbing a stool to sit on only to have it come apart, a moment handled beautifully and with a lot of humor, and a great extended "Inner City Blues" with Marvin soloing on a Rhodes, and the show-ending "What's Going On" complete with extended sermon about what's going on in life, what's the purpose? he asks...and answers to the best of his ability.

I can't recommend this disc enough. It's a great time and the flaws can be overlooked - after all, most shows from that era don't sound as good as the stuff that's come out since the digital revolution really took hold in the late 80's. If you're a dyed-in-the-wool Marvin fan, you HAVE to own this."

This must be heaven - to hear and see Marvin - WOW!!!!!!!

Julie MacNeil | beautiful iowa | 04/08/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"When I found out about this DVD I couldn't wait to see it and it was more wonderful than I could have imagined! The improv in this concert and his interaction with the crowd is incredible! (What I wouldn't give to have that dance with him!) I saw him in Boston on his Midnight Love tour, shortly before his death, and as great as it was to see him perform in person, it didn't compare to this. He does some songs from Here my Dear and I Want You, that I have never heard live before, which is so awesome. I was brought to tears at times by just the sweetness of his voice, if you love Marvin, don't hesitate one more moment to buy this DVD. Yes, the sound quality isn't perfect, but Marvin is!"

A Must For All Marvin Gaye Fans!!

Kevin Mattingly | 07/07/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Loved it!! This performance displays a more candid and personal side of Marvin. He spends some time at the piano, behind the drums, and even invites a couple of women onstage for a dance. There's also a stage blooper that was kind of funny! I won't give too much away, but this video is a must for all Marvin Gaye fans!!"