Pet Shop Boys: Performance

Filmed over the course of three evenings at the Birmingham NEC in 1991, "Performance" features the Pet Shop Boys in top form, showcasing some of their greatest songs. I hesitate to say "singing," as this is, as the title suggests, a performance piece. Lavish sets, garish costumes, and a calvacade of dancers and backup singers make this a needed addition to any PSB fan's collection. While it is an import and carries a bit of a fee, it's well worth buying; wonderfully remastered and presented in 5.1 surround, "Performance" has quickly become one of my favorite live concert DVDs. The tracklisting is as follows: This must be the place I waited years to leave It's a sin Losing my mind What have I done to deserve this? My October symphony I'm not scared We all feel better in the dark So sorry, I said Suburbia So hard Opportunities (let's make lots of money) How can you expect to be taken seriously? Rent Where the streets have no name (I can't take my eyes off you) West End girls Jealousy Always on my mind Your funny uncle While "Performance" has been available on VHS for some time, it lacked the inclusion of "Where the streets have no name (I can't take my eyes off you) due to legal reasons; it is great to have the complete show. The weakest track would be "What have I done to deserve this" and that is only due to Dusty Springfield's absence; I fear I've been spoiled by the "Montage" version. That is not to say that this track on "Performance" is terrible; it is just that it is not the same hearing another woman sing backup. Standouts are "Jealousy," "It's a sin," and "We all feel better in the dark." As with the "PopArt" DVD, the commentary is generous and a kick to watch, giving greater insight into Tennant and Lowe's songbook. Enclosed is an interview with Neil and Chris from '91, as well as one with David Alden and David Fielding. "Performance" contains perhaps the most intriguing ninety minutes worth of concert footage I've ever been privy to witness; it will require multiple viewings just to take everything in, and even then, it will always seem fresh and new, as if experiencing it for the first time.