WORLDS APART REVISITED

I have to admit that when I heard that Saga was releasing a CD/DVD collection which had Worlds Apart performed in it's entirety that I was pretty excited. I recall being swept up with MTV's rotation of "On The Loose" back in the early 80's and buying the album almost immediately. It stands as one of the best albums to come from that decade for me.

The first DVD is the entire show from Switzerland in 2005 and the band is just spot on kicking off the show with "The Pitchman" from Heads Or Tales. Ian Crichton especially impresses with his 'no-nonsense' approach to just brutalizing the guitar. Still, it's hard to take your eyes off the captivating Michael Sadler with his grand gestures and soaring vocals (It still amazes me that after 30+ years he still hasn't lost anything off of that voice.) Sadler is one of the reasons why I became a Saga fan in the 80's, and why I'm still a Saga fan.

I won't go into a song by song account, but suffice it to say that the band doesn't disappoint in regards to the musicianship. Worlds Apart especially translates well live and is a definite highlight. Even drummer Brian Doerner performs the album flawlessly, if not better than Negus (Never a huge Negus fan). "On The Loose" is as powerful today as it was 25 years ago. That opening is unmistakeable. Additionally, one of my favorite Saga songs is "The Interview", so it's especially great to see this live.

It is due to disc 1, however, that prohibits me from giving it a 5 star rating. As much as I enjoy it, I would've liked to hear other songs besides the usuals ("Humble Stance" to name just a few). To be honest, I like to have heard more from Trust and Network.

The second DVD is interesting, to say the least. Especially Ian Crichton and Jim Gilmour talking about the recording of Worlds Apart in England. As always, however, it's the live footage that gets me. Seeing Sadler back in his prime and how he commanded the stage is not unlike Freddie Mercury; however, I want it known that NOBODY commands the stage like Freddie. Still a dynamic performer, but back in the day Sadler was a bit more wirey and mobile.

I wish that I could've given this 5 stars, but I like to have had songs "The Flyer" or "Don't Make A Sound" included; but, with Saga I'll take what I can get and be happy. 4.5/5!