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MASTERS FROM THE VAULTSEmerson Lake & PalmerSymphonic Prog |
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I wonder what audiences seeing the guys for the 1st. time must have felt like? I know that I was truly impressed by the quality & presentation of (they looked as though they were really enjoying performing) the tracks in this DVD selection).
For me, seeing Mr. Emmerson seriously abusing the Hammond C3 was both entertaining & sobering (in Pounds Sterling, how much dammage has he caused in that way??).
I bet any self-respecting Organ manufacturer would cringe!
Also interesting (and I'm being a bit of an "Anorak" here), is that I'm sure one of the verses on Knife Edge was missed out & the 1st. verse repeated instead. I wonder why.
Also, the version of Tank pleasantly surprised me - much more jazzy & "lighter" than on the 1st. album. What made them change the format?
By the way, I also happen to like the album version very much as well.
Overall, money well spent as far as I'm concerned, just a shame the picture quality seems a bit faded (not surprising, considering the age of the original film, I suppose).
By the way, was there any truth in the rumour that this DVD wasn't officially sanctioned?
Thanks
Steve P.



Emerson's playing is exemplary, here we see his over the top display of playing the Hammond upside down, riding it like a horse and sticking knives into it to hold down notes. These histrionics only really occur during the Rondo/Bach improvisations section, thankfully, as ultimately they do not sustain interest. A point to note, no one before or since has displayed this flamboyant approach to keyboard playing and one must look on Emerson as being pretty much unique. Carl Palmer's drum solo is also in this section, great drummer though he is he also overdoses and goes on too long.
The other tracks are a different story, here there is much less showmanship they are content to let their exceptional playing and energy shine through. For me the highlights are Take a Pebble with a section from Tank in the middle, Nutrocker and Knife Edge.
Considering the age of the recording, the stereo sound is excellent but don't turn the volume too high. There is a 5.1 surround sound option but I haven't tried it. Picture quality is only acceptable, the colours look a bit washed out but you get plenty of close ups of Emerson's & Palmer's technique. Lake is mainly in the background until we get to the acoustic section on Take a Pebble. His voice and guitar are clear as a bell.
Mixed in with shots of the musicians is material showing trees, bubbles and buildings, thankfully these are kept to a minimum or would have spoiled a great DVD. There are no extras which is a shame as the concert footage only lasts 60 minutes.
ELP fans shouldn't be disappointed. If like me you have never seen them live this particular DVD is an excellent alternative.


Oh yes, you will definitely enjoy how Carl Palmer manages his two sticks. And this might be a good trip by new your prog heads who only know Mike Portnoy as progressive rock drummer, might compare with Carl Palmer. Each has their own style. "Take A Pebble" has always been my favorite of all time especially with its catchy melody and great singing by Lake. The last track "Knife Edge" is also a wonderful thing to enjoy.
For those who love vintage bands, this DVD is a must - especially if you love ELP.
Peace on earth and mercy mild - GW

Apart from the drum solo , my favourite number is the extended version of Take a Pebble which includes a longer acoustic medley by Lake.
I can't consider this record a masterpiece because I think it should have some extra material. But we can't be hard on that aspect considering this is a non official release. I find this Masters from the Vauts DVD to be superior to Pictures of an Exhibition and really essential for any progressive rock fan who wants to see the band at their early days. These are going to be the biggest and brightest 4 stars I ll ever award a release with.
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