Customer Rating: 
Summary: Simply Sensational
Comment: 'This Is Tom Jones' was an ATV/ABC variety show which run for a couple of years between 1969-71. It probably goes without saying the star of the show was none other than the charismatic powerhouse voiced Tom Jones himself.
To use words like charismatic and powerhouse voiced in addition to elecrifying performer and amazingly versitile singer is no idle boast when describing Tom Jones at this period of his career as he literally tore into the songs (especially the uptempo ones) with an incredible sense of abandonment in addition to displaying a rare sensitivity when the need arose with many of the ballads. His fantastic stage presence with his incredibly exciting moves (which drove some women crazy) is truly a sight to behold. In performances that switch between songs with elaborate choreography and set designs and more traditional in concert style performances Tom touched on vitually every genre music has to offer (at the time) with spectacular results. However, what seems most blatant watching these performances back is the absolute mastery and love Tom shows when performing rock 'n' roll, rhythm and blues and soul music. It's obvious he has a real love of these genres especially, and it also shows he was capable of a lot more than his more popular styles - sophisticated uptempo pop and big ballads.
However, as great as Tom was he's not the only reason to buy this DVD set. Many of his guest stars are equally impressive - especially the musical ones. Little Richard, Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Joe Cocker and others are absolutely brilliant in their performances as are their duets with Tom. However, if i had to pick a favourite it would have to be Janis Joplin who gives an awe inspiring version of 'Little Girl Blue' in addition to her marvellous duet with Tom on 'Raise Your Hand'
It's perhaps true to say some of the comedy moments are a little more hit and miss despite Peter Sellers and Bob Hope being pretty good. The Ace Trucking Company can become a little nauseating at times. However, what i do like is the fact that all these acts touch on topics which were relevant at the time which helps to put this era into context, generally.
A recent Tom Jones interview is also included which turns out to be very revelationary in its descriptions of the events surrounding the making of the series.
Generally this DVD set is sensational with the only drawback being an occasional less than thrilling comedy sketch. However, the DVD is designed so those scenes can be edited out of the programme if desired. When it comes to the music though it is all, without exception, sensational. The music has a real richness and incredible raw energy which is rarely found in the predominantly bland sounding music of today. The orchestral backing provides a dense framework for which the singers can hang their raw passionate vocals. This DVD set is mainly in colour except a small segment where the original colour film has been lost.
For youngsters especially 'This Is Tom Jones' can act as a reminder of the potential popular music can offer. For the older generation an affirmation of what they already know - those far off days of the late 60s - early 70s really were so much better - at least musically.
|
![Tom Jones - This Is Tom Jones - Rock 'N' Roll Legends [2007]](http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/516sJS9EcDL._SL160_.jpg)
