EXPOSED

One of two ACTUAL concerts from the classic period (Still waiting on Knebworth 1980 here..) "Exposed" on DVD is a video version of the "Exposed" album, (different dates, though) with the same track listing, and virtually identical performance.

Subsequently, it suffers from the same faults of the original audio release, and some more brought on by the visual aspect.

You can tell Mike isn't used to performing infront of an audience, during slow parts he mulls around the stage with his hands locked gazing at the audience or staring at the floor. At least he doesn't do the old "Looking at your fellow band members gaily like everything is right in the world" routine like the rest of the band. His playing seems a little held back but very competent, though I was again painfully dissapointed at the Incantations Part Four finale where that magnificent solo present on the studio album is replaced with a terrible short lived riff that doesn't even graze the immense greatness of the original.

The band is WAY too large, and the orchestra is generally unheard, except for points where one or two violins would have sufficed. The team of percussionists however is a essential part of these performances, a highlight is witnessing the very talented Pierre Moerlen (Leading Gong at the time) displaying his expertise on various percussion instruments. He is also an incredible drummer, if only Knebworth 1980 was released, his solo on Ommadawn is incredible. The keyboardists include the future staple of Oldfield's live set for the next few years, the light fingered Tim Cross.

The music is well performed with not much room for individual creativity, improvisation or a intimate atmosphere, imposed by the large and unnecesary orchestra.

Picture quality is superb, clarity and resolution is much better than I expected, and the audio quality is excellent. Unfortunately the DVD contains some very un needed features like multi angle viewing, which expanded the release to two DVDs, which resulted in the very high price tag. ($30+)

Get the Montreux 1981 DVD, It's much better in terms of everything, but this is the next step on the ladder, a good look at the early music of this symphonic rock great.