Live

Personnel: Steinar Krokstad (drums).
Photographer: Ton Pors.
This straightforward concert film is bolstered by the presence of the ever excellent Mads Eriksen Band and, of course, the indisputable brilliance of Chris Thompson at his electrifying live best. Shot in Tromso, Norway, in 2008, the 16 songs naturally trace Thompson's career through the bulk of its highlights, from understated jewels like "Angel" and "Hot Summer Nights" through to the staples without which his show would never be complete. That means fresh airings of "Mighty Quinn (Quinn the Eskimo)," "Blinded by the Light," and "Questions," plus "Davy's on the Road Again" -- a dismal little song that really doesn't deserve the attention and praise lavished upon it by Mann and Thompson supporters alike, but which at least tries to look like it's enjoying itself here. Bonus features include a very entertaining interview, plus the promo video for "Ain't No Rain in the Farmhouse" and a short featurette documenting its creation. They're fine, but of course the concert is the main attraction, and that is flawless. ~ Dave Thompson