Heart: Alive in Seattle Blu-ray Review

"Heart: Alive in Seattle," available on Blu-ray from Image Entertainment, is presented in a 1080i high-definition format framed at a 1.78:1 aspect ratio. The video performance captures the essence of the live concert environment with impressive clarity and detail. The overall image quality is commendable, with the fine detail of the stage equipment and performers' attire standing out convincingly. Flesh tones are reproduced with lifelike accuracy, often creating an immersive experience that feels almost like being in the front row. The black levels are deep and true, enhancing the overall visual impact, although they are less predominant compared to other concert discs like "John Mayer: Where the Light Is."

The show is brightly lit, which allows for fantastic detail visibility. Close-up shots vividly reveal intricate details, from the sweat on the band's faces to the coils of guitar strings. Colors are brilliantly vivid, dominated by rich reds, blues, and purples that maintain solid hues even during highly saturated moments. The contrast is well-balanced, giving the image a pleasing pop without appearing harsh. Shot entirely with HD cameras, the presentation achieves a crisp, "you-are-there" look typical of live HD music recordings. Although there is minor noise in highly saturated segments, and slight posterization in some fine color gradients, overall compression performance remains strong and reliable.

The Blu-ray of "Heart: Alive in Seattle" offers an exceptional audio presentation, featuring three audio options including a primary lossless DTS-HD MA 5.0 soundtrack. This mix brings out the intricate nuances of the live performance, with Ann Wilson's vocals rendered sharp and crisp, maintaining her impressive range without faltering. The musical accompaniment, from delicate acoustic guitar strums to powerful electric riffs, is reproduced with palpable magic, creating an immersive live concert experience. Surround speakers are actively engaging, filling the room with the power and grace of Heart's biggest hits, while crowd noise and ambience provide a convincing on-stage presence rather than an in-the-crowd feel.

The DTS-HD MA 5.0 track is robust and clean, devoid of the harsh high-range issues that can detract from rock presentations. Ann Wilson’s multi-octave voice is highlighted to excellent effect. One notable limitation is the absence of a dedicated .1 LFE channel due to unavailable source elements, resulting in a somewhat lacking bass presence which could have enhanced rock numbers like 'Barracuda'. Also included are a Dolby Digital 5.0 Surround track (640kbps) and a solid PCM 2.0 Stereo (2.3mbps) option, ideal for when visual elements aren’t required, such as during a workout session.

In essence, Image Entertainment has delivered another impressive concert disc with "Heart: Alive in Seattle," despite the slight bass limitations. The audio quality uplifts the live performance experience, putting you right in the heart of the show. For fans and audiophiles alike, this Blu-ray's audio tracks honor Heart's legendary music with clarity and depth.

The extras on the "Heart: Alive in Seattle" Blu-ray are rather limited, but they provide a modest glimpse into the concert experience and the band's perspectives. The main feature is a brief interview with Ann and Nancy Wilson, although it functions more as an extended promotion for the concert. The interview leans heavily on show clips, reducing the actual talk time. Additional content includes a photo gallery, liner notes specific to this performance, and a special thanks section.

Extras included in this disc:

• Interview: A brief discussion with Ann and Nancy Wilson, interspersed with concert footage.
• Photo Gallery: A collection of images from the performance.
• Liner Notes: Detailed notes about this particular show.
• Special Thanks: A listing of special acknowledgments.

Heart: Alive in Seattle captures the Wilson sisters, Ann and Nancy, in a high-energy performance recorded at the Paramount Theater on August 8, 2002. Delivering a robust setlist of their biggest hits, including 'Crazy On You,' 'Magic Man,' and 'Barracuda,' the band keeps the crowd electrified throughout the 102-minute show. From Ann's powerhouse vocals to Nancy's impressive guitar riffs, Heart successfully combines elements of classic rock with alternative and hard-hitting metal influences. Notably, the band's covers of Led Zeppelin’s 'Battle of Evermore' and 'Black Dog' stand out as both respectful and invigorating renditions, appealing even to dedicated fans of the original tracks.

While Ann's vocal prowess remains unparalleled and Nancy's guitar skills are equally compelling, Heart: Alive in Seattle doesn't boast a visually dynamic presentation. The intimate theater setting feels somewhat bland, with minimal set design and unimpressive lighting. Despite these shortcomings in stagecraft, the Wilson sisters’ raw talent and musical chemistry overshadow the lack of visual spectacle. Ann’s vocal range continues to impress, resonating powerfully throughout the venue, and Nancy’s multi-chord progressions on tracks like 'These Dreams' showcase her skillful musicianship.

Additionally, Heart engages the audience directly, turning songs like 'Break the Rock' into interactive experiences. With genuine effort and commitment to their performance, the Wilson sisters prove that even decades into their career, they can still captivate an audience energetically and passionately. For established fans and newcomers alike, Heart: Alive in Seattle is a testament to the enduring appeal and talent of one of rock’s most iconic bands.

"Heart: Alive in Seattle" captures the dynamic energy of one of rock's most acclaimed bands from the late 1970s and 1980s. Presenting a stellar mix of original hits and well-chosen covers, this Blu-ray provides a comprehensive experience for both long-time fans and newcomers. The performance is infused with high-octane, energetic renditions that are sure to captivate viewers. Technically, Image Entertainment delivers strong visuals and impressive audio quality that heighten the live concert feel, making it a treat for both the eyes and ears.

However, the staging of "Alive in Seattle" may fall short for some viewers who might find it lacks the visual dynamism expected from a top-tier production. While the camera work is competent, it does not offer the most engaging visual spectacle, which could potentially lead to disinterest among some audiences. Moreover, this Blu-ray release is relatively sparse on bonus material, possibly leaving those who expect comprehensive extras feeling a bit shortchanged.

Overall, Heart: Alive in Seattle is a fun, high-energy show featuring one of rock's most followed bands of the late 1970s and 80s. With plenty of original material and covers of several classics, those familiar with the band, those looking for an introduction to them as they perform some established favorites, or anyone just wanting to see an uptempo, high-octane live musical performance on Blu-ray could do much worse than Heart: Alive in Seattle. As expected, Image Entertainment has put out a disc with high-quality visuals and outstanding audio but has skimped on extra material. At the price Amazon is asking for the disc ($16.95 as I write), the program is too good to pass up if you have any interest in the band.