The Old Grey Whistle Test - The Memorable TV DVD Review

Volume two of The Old Grey Whistle Test is even better than the first edition, featuring as it does some real giants of the rock scene. The performances span the whole of Whistle Test's run from a brilliant Head, Hands and Feet (performing ideal opening track Warming Up The Band) to a typically ramshackle Pogues from 1986.

When The Old Grey Whistle Test went on air in 1971 it was unique. In a world accustomed to Top of the Pops, this was a show on which the bands performed album tracks and were interviewed after they had played. The program went out on BBC2, last thing on a Tuesday night. If things were going well on the show, it would stay on air. Some shows ended after 25 minutes while particularly good ones sometimes extended to an hour and a half.

The show was always able to attract the cream of the music scene, this set contains so many stand outs from a glammed up Roxy Music performing Ladytron to a completely mesmerising performance from Judee Sill with The Kiss. Equally brilliant is a solo Bruce Johnston from the Beach Boys and his sublime song Disney Girls as well an immaculately groomed Kenny Loggins and Jimmy Messina singing the acoustic House at Pooh Corner.

There's not really a duff performance here though and where can you find The Who rubbing shoulders with The Undertones or Tim Buckley with Thomas Dolby. For any rock music fan these Old Grey Whistle Tests releases are indispensable.

ANY SPECIAL FEATURES?

Original interviews with superstar rockers Roger Daltrey, Nick Lowe, Rick Wakeman, T.V. Smith, Jools Holland and Roddy Frame; Extra special interviews with The Old Grey Whistle Test presenter and well-recognized music broadcaster Bob Harris; Artists Gallery – still photos and backstage anecdotes; Unique Random Play feature that allows viewers to watch the performances, without introductions, in a random order for a different set list each time.