The Tangent
Seems my review of the latest Tangent DVD has caused a bit of a stir (understatement).
Admittedly, some of my comments were probably a touch harsh and I have since been in contact with Andy Tillison and we've had a frank exchange of opinions. What I would stress is that I am a fan of the Tangent's music and I can't wait to hear their new CD. In my defence of the DVD review, I'd just like to stress a couple of things:
Whether the release was intended for "fans only" (in itself an odd description as I can't imagine any "non-fans" buying it), I was given a DVD to review. In doing that, I have to give my honest opinion about the visual contents as well as the musical. Although many didn't agree with my criticisms, I feel they were in part justified. It is a low budget film, with no fan interaction to enliven things, and it just looks done on the cheap. Could I therefore recommend that people spend money on it? In my opinion, no. It may be aimed at fans and paid for by fans, but last time I looked it was still on sale on their website and as such can't be treated any different from any release. It's simply not what I personally would be looking for in a live DVD. Others may find it awesome. I guess that's what opinions / freedom of expression is all about. This might sound patronising but I honestly think the band deserved better. Musically, they have always been top notch and the soundtrack on this DVD continues that. But as a visual experience, it's just not one for me. On a more general note, it is irksome how there are people out there who believe that just because something is prog, that it has to be great!!
I know Andy was upset by my comments, which I have since apologised for as I am fully aware he's an honest and decent guy who is determined to make a success of the band. I think he understands where I was coming from, even if I did make my point too bluntly. He's also been gracious enough to ask me over to his place in order I can listen to the new CD - an offer which I hope to take up very soon.
Admittedly, some of my comments were probably a touch harsh and I have since been in contact with Andy Tillison and we've had a frank exchange of opinions. What I would stress is that I am a fan of the Tangent's music and I can't wait to hear their new CD. In my defence of the DVD review, I'd just like to stress a couple of things:
Whether the release was intended for "fans only" (in itself an odd description as I can't imagine any "non-fans" buying it), I was given a DVD to review. In doing that, I have to give my honest opinion about the visual contents as well as the musical. Although many didn't agree with my criticisms, I feel they were in part justified. It is a low budget film, with no fan interaction to enliven things, and it just looks done on the cheap. Could I therefore recommend that people spend money on it? In my opinion, no. It may be aimed at fans and paid for by fans, but last time I looked it was still on sale on their website and as such can't be treated any different from any release. It's simply not what I personally would be looking for in a live DVD. Others may find it awesome. I guess that's what opinions / freedom of expression is all about. This might sound patronising but I honestly think the band deserved better. Musically, they have always been top notch and the soundtrack on this DVD continues that. But as a visual experience, it's just not one for me. On a more general note, it is irksome how there are people out there who believe that just because something is prog, that it has to be great!!
I know Andy was upset by my comments, which I have since apologised for as I am fully aware he's an honest and decent guy who is determined to make a success of the band. I think he understands where I was coming from, even if I did make my point too bluntly. He's also been gracious enough to ask me over to his place in order I can listen to the new CD - an offer which I hope to take up very soon.
posted by Rich Wilson at
10:16 pm
1 Comments
