T.M. Revolution: T.M.R. Live Revolution '02 - Best Summer Crush 2002 (2002) Online

Simply put, T.M. Revolution's "Crush" double-DVD is one of the great films to capture a rock act in all its immediacy. T.M. Revolution's command of a crowd is amazing and, indeed, frightening. If for no other reason, watch this for the crowd scenes here. Leni Riefenstahl herself could not have choreographed what goes on here. Takanori Nishikawa plays the crowd like a yo-yo. He sings, he bolts about the stage(he is absolutely tireless),he plays guitar(well, I might add) and he even literally reduces some of the women in the audience to tears. Seeing all those people waving glow-sticks in unison is an eerie sight at times. Takanori is a hard-working and likable entertainer. One wonders what he could do if he turned his talents to (if I might use an old-fashioned word here)evil. Takanori is amazing here, but the crowds are equally amazing. His backing band is just ace. The guitarist, the bassist, and the drummer are all stupendous. One suspects a little 'sweetening' here and there(one hears backup vocals, but no one appears to be singing them - also some keyboards and synths). Still, the immediacy of this is just shattering. Some of the special effects look a little dangerous(some might be banned at this point for all one knows). Takanori also shows off his taste for outlandish attire throughout the concert sequences. There are interesting behind-the-scenes shots here and there on the first disc and a lot more on the second disc. On the second disc, be sure to hang around for the full song "Vital Burner." This, ladies and gentlemen, is rock-and-roll. Takanori tears the house down and the camera captures him in all his, well, vitality. The hooks in this song will sink into your memory and never let go. This is a bolt of sheer electric energy. The crowd shot at the very end of the second disc is awe-inspiring and a little intimidating. This is what Takanori faces from the stage every night. It'll take your breath away. If you're new to Japanese rock music, this will serve as a fine introduction. And if you're a T.M. Revolution fan, this is a must. Great performances captured greatly. You'll come away from this with respect for the creativity and the sheer physical energy of the man. And it's one of the great rock documentaries, period. Case closed. Greg Cameron, Surrey, B.C., Canada