This, as far as I’m concerned, is the ‘must see’ live DVD of the year

Overall, the live show is just amazing, musically, vocally, visually, the ensemble really pull it off. Hearing 80,000 fans singing along with Avantasia is a little awe inspiring.

If rock and roll debauchery is something you are into, definitely pick this up but if you are a fan of the classic In Rock / Machine Head era of Deep Purple then you are better off spending your money elsewhere.

My complaints about this disc are few (I would REALLY like a straight through version of the show) but my praise is high. This is a great watch for fans new and old and the accompanying live CD has some great rare live 80’s tracks as well.

One of the optional categories that all Hellbound contributors were asked to write about in our year end polls was their favourite Metal DVD of 2010. As it was optional – and because not all of us watched music DVDs in 2010 – not everyone has participated but I think that it is obvious from those that had a favourite to offer that the new RUSH documentary Beyond The Lighted Stage was hands down the favourite, followed by the Norwegian black metal documentary Until The Light Takes Us. Here are the individual favourite Metal DVDs of 2010, alphabetical by writer.

Having an Immortal at Wacken DVD is a real treat for me because I know that I’m going to get a concert that actually looks and sounds like a live show. No ridiculously quick cuts or overly obvious tricks, no overdubs, nothing. The stuff that comes out of Wacken Open Air is consistently awesome and this is definitely no exception. The show is shot beautifully, the editing done flawlessly without making your head spin, and the band plays a solid set.

The Acacia Strain have the dubious distinction of being one of the original ‘deathcore’ bands, spawning a whole load of crappy imitations over the years. Thankfully, The Acacia Strain are still head and shoulders above all of their competition and live they really shine. Yes, the editing is quite jarring, but at the same time I think it gives an accurate feeling to being at one of The Acacia Strain’s shows: loud, hectic, and effectively putting the viewer off balance.

What the DVD does is allow the viewer to get to know Gene Hoglan, the drummer and the man. It’s an entertaining watch and I’d recommend it to non-drummers who still have an interest in Gene or Gene’s bands.