Plot: What’s it about?
Lilith Fair, as I am sure most of you know, is an all female musical tour, which celebrates women in music. This release covers the first rendition of Lilith Fair, back in 1997 and includes some terrific performances. The performers all seem in fine form and include Sarah McLachlan, The Indigo Girls, Jewel, Meredith Brooks, Shawn Colvin, and Sheryl Crow. In addition to some solo numbers, the ladies also join together in various combinations, which provides an excellent variety of performances. In between the live musical numbers, this edition of Lilith Fair includes interviews with the performers, which is a very welcome addition. These pieces provide insight into how this tour came to be, why the performers chose to join up, and also lets the ladies give their thoughts on women in the music business. I knew this would be a terrific release, but with the added interviews, this turns out to be an excellent overall value. I give this disc a very high recommendation, so if you’re at all interested, this release is well worth a look and listen. Below is a listing of the musical tracks included on this release.
1. Building A Mystery- Sarah McLachlan
2. Water Is Wide- Sarah McLachlan/ Jewel/ Indigo Girls
3. Bitch- Meredith Brooks
4. Tried To Be True- Sheryl Crow/ Indigo Girls
5. Sunny Come Home- Shawn Colvin
6. Strong Enough- Sheryl Crow
7. Near You Always- Jewel
8. Shame On You- Indigo Girls
9. Ice Cream- Sarah McLachlan
10. Closer To Fine- Indigo Girls/ Meredith Brooks/ Jewel/ Sarah McLachlan
11. I Need- Meredith Brooks
12. Wichita Skyline- Shawn Colvin
13. Angel- Sarah McLachlan
14. Morning Song- Jewel
15. Big Yellow Taxi- All Artists
Video: How does it look?
As it should be, this program is shown full frame and looks good. The performance sequences look as good as taped concerts can, while the interview footage is also sharp and acceptable. Of course, the image isn’t as refined as a feature film, but given the nature of this release, I don’t think anyone will be let down here. The lights on stage look fantastic here, while the colors stream across the screen and black levels remain consistent as well. In the interview sections, the flesh tones are sharp and no real problems surface in the least. This transfer shows some edge enhancement at times, but nothing serious and in the end, this is a very solid visual presentation.
Audio: How does it sound?
This is a music based release and as such, the included Dolby Digital 5.1 track is excellent. The live performances sound terrific in this mix, very rich and immersive, while never coming off as forced or hollow. The surrounds see a lot of action here, as the vocals and instruments are well mixed and never overpower each other at all. All the elements are distinct and well placed, which allows the music to shine and that’s the whole point here, right? The interview sequences also sound good, but of course, this just means the dialogue is sharp and volume is consistent. This disc also includes a 2.0 stereo track, in case that better suits your home theater needs.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc contains no bonus materials.
