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Dave Matthews Band
THE GORGE
(RCA)
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Thanks to the natural acoustics of Washington State’s stunning Columbia River Gorge, this two-CD/one-DVD set (recorded over the course of three consecutive shows in 2002) provides listeners with more than three hours of flawless material that showcases the Dave Matthews Band’s richly textured arrangements, energetic jams, and overall talent for putting on a live show. Through 27 songs, each transition is so smooth, each entrance and exit so perfectly timed, it’s almost a relief when Matthews’s voice falters at the climax of the emotional "You Never Know." Carter Beauford’s powerful and always tasteful drumming holds together tougher tunes like "Drive In, Drive Out" and "Kit Kat Jam"; guest keyboardist Butch Taylor’s piano lines add depth and sophistication to "Rapunzel," "Proudest Monkey," and a 19-minute version of "Two Step." The DVD offers dozens of dramatic, sweeping camera angles, a documentary about the band’s weekend at the Gorge, and footage of making the "Grace Is Gone" video. Just short of 10 years after their major-label debut, Under the Table and Dreaming, the Dave Matthews Band show no sign of slowing down any time soon.
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