Bee Gees Live By Request

Review by James Anthony

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The first track I can remember hearing by the Bee Gees was Spicks and Specks - and that was as a little ankle-biter in the 1960s.

Since then I've had a love-'em, hate-'em relationship with the three Gibbs brothers (Robin, Maurice and Barry) but, over the past year, have come to realise what a tremendously talented lot they are.

And, when deep-soul searching to explain my mid-70s' loathing of the trio, all I could come up with is the fact they were connected with Saturday Night Fever and the white-suited disco-bunny brigade.

So, with a more mature (well, not really) attitude I sat down and listened to the boys who made good in Oz and have not only written and performed their own hits for 40+ years, but also penned mega-hits for countless others.

Bee Gees: Live By Request is a DVD that captures the highlights of the guys' careers and does so in the rather interesting way. The Bee Gees are live on TV - hosted by an enthusiastic compere who seriously gave me the irrits - and fans call in with requests.

There's a bit of humour, chit chat and questions, and then the guys warble away. They really are terrific and their harmonies are among the best you will ever hear.

Massachusetts is a favourite, as is I Started a Joke and the acoustic medley is superb. Other people will have different favourites - Jive Talkin', How Can You Mend a Broken Heart, You Should Be Dancing or How Deep is Your Love.

All up, Bee Gees: Live By Request is a very fine DVD with very good video transfer and excellent sound (in Stereo, 5.1 and dts 5.1). If you like the Bee Gees then you won't be disappointed. If you haven't heard them then do yourself a favour and check them out.

Conclusion: 85%

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