Mostly Autumn is a band that you'll want to pay attention to. If you have not heard of them now is a great time to investigate, and The V Shows DVD is a splendid introduction. The group is a wonderful combination of some of my favorite bands: classics like Pink Floyd, Genesis (covered on DVD 2 with a stunning performance of "Afterglow") and Jethro Tull, as well as newer favorites like Karnataka and Iona (Iona's Troy Donockley makes a spectacular guest appearance on the DVD for an added treat!). Mostly Autumn specializes in a near-hypnotic brand of atmospheric progressive rock with a Celtic flair, and this performance features gentle vocals (Heather Findlay handles most of the lead vocals with grace), powerful string arrangements, tender woodwinds, majestic keyboards, and lush guitar sounds (with lead guitar by band leader Bryan Josh).
In May of 2004 Mostly Autumn appeared at the Astoria Theatre in London for a series of multi-media concert spectaculars that were captured on film for this production. A stunning concert stage set featuring moody light displays, laser effects, video, a string section, and the amazing array of instruments played by the group is captured admirably on the video. The video production does a spectacular job of catching Mostly Autumn performing their unique brand of music and highlighting the immensely talented members of the band (and guests). And the 5.1 Surround Sound audio adds fine depth to the performance as well.
The V Shows comes wrapped in a beautiful package featuring a book documenting the performance and a nice hardcover library-quality color cover that will fit nicely on your bookshelf. And right after you watch this quality performance I can guarantee you will want to delve further into their other projects, including their classic CD Music Inspired by the Lord of the Rings, The Last Bright Light, and Passengers. Mostly Autumn is a band to watch!
