DVD Review: Bill Nelson and the Gentlemen Rocketeers
Bill Nelson and the Gentlemen Rocketeers: Live in Concert at Metropolis Studio, London is a nice, intimate concert performed at the Metropolis Studios in front of only about 100 people. For people that know Bill Nelson, they would remember him from his band Be-Bop Deluxe and his long solo career.
Here, Bill shines through early Be-Bop Deluxe hits like “Panic in the World” from the album Drastic Plastic, “Maid in Heaven” and “Sister Seagull” from the album Futurama, and “Night Creatures” and “Adventures in a Yorkshire Landscape” from their debut album Axe Victim.
“Night Creatures” was personally one of my favorites. On some of his solo hits, I heard reminisces of Pink Floyd on tracks like “God Man Slain” and “Contemplation,” which featured some really cool sax parts.
Looking like a mix between Paul Carrack and Elvis Costello, Bill showcased his talented songwriting with other standout songs like the new wavy “Furniture Music,” “Ships in the Night,” the Floyd-ian “Lovers Are Mortal,” and “Wonder of the Moment.”
You can tell Nelson’s music is from the 80’s from the instrumentation he uses on the songs. Overall, though, it was a very enjoyable concert. I wouldn’t say he’s a favorite of mine, but his music was really nice to sit back and listen to. One thing I really loved was Theo Travis was on saxes. He’s one of the best sax players around.
With this combo pack you also get 2 CDs along with the DVD of the entire concert, so you can travel on the road with it!
Reviewed by Kevin Pollack
Rating 3/5