Toto - 25th Anniversary: Live in Amsterdam (Blu-ray Disc, 2006)

I remember really liking the single 'Hold The Line' back in the late '70s. I didn't pay much attention to Toto after that (but I do remember Jeff Porcaro's death, as such a great session drummer), but on the recommendation of a friend, I picked up Toto's 25th Anniversary: Live In Amsterdam, and I was very impressed with the musicianship, from Simon Phillips' precision drumming and Mike Porcaro's capable bass playing, to David Paich's signature sound on keyboards. But Steve Lukather's guitar really rocked, from great blues to straight-ahead rock 'n' roll. I've seen him perform on other DVDs (Larry Carlton & Steve Lukather Band - The Paris Concert; and another with Los Lobotomys), so I was aware of his abilities.

I didn't realize how much David and Steve shared on lead vocals with Bobby Kimball (who's a very intense vocalist in his own right, and still has very good range after 25 years), but this lineup is very good, and this show was much more than most bands reuniting and showcasing their old recycled hits from oldies radio. Toto still has it.

I rated this DVD good because the band was in good form, the music was mixed well for the DVD, and the crowd was really into it. The addition of Tony Spinner on guitar and John Jessel on keyboards helped fill out the sound. I expected the hits - 'Rosanna,' 'Hold The Line,' 'Africa,' 'I'll Supply The Love' - but '99' was the obvious absentee. Their cover of Steely Dan's 'Bodhisattva' was tastefully done, and their George Harrison tribute of 'While My Guitar Gently Weeps' was visibly moving, though Steve flubs a line or two in the lyrics. The DVD extras feature the off-stage drunken, sophomoric antics of a band that obviously needs to release some tension, something I'd expect of 25-year-olds.

If you're looking for a fun night out with a great band, Toto's 25th Anniversary: Live In Amsterdam is a good show to discover.

i loved the concert, very good quality shots, good sound tracks selection and a great expierence, as good as being at the first row in the theather .
thanks TOTO.