Chicago and Earth, Wind & Fire: Live at the Greek Theatre [Blu-ray]

After much delay, this disc is finally released so; what do we have. Overall the concert is a great experience. I thought the direction was outstanding, with some great shot choices and timing. It is my understanding that the video was captured in 2004, which may explain why the occasional shot doesn't hold up to blu-ray full potential as to clarity. Am going to assume that most buying this disc are fans of the bands, so you already know that both now contain a substantial percentage of non-original members.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the show to me is how well the bands mesh during their two sets together (both the opening and closing of the show). It's a real treat and am sure you will like it. It is during the separation that the differences become more stark. EWF goes first, and the fact that most are hired guns aside, there is no question that EWF showcases superior musicianship. The groves are intense, and the energy is omnipresent. About the only oddity in the group is that Philip Bailey has placed his wife in the band, who in my opinion added nothing to an otherwise stellar lineup.
Bailey's voice truly delivers, including a beautiful showcase vocal solo. The harmonies are there. As to the musicianship, I assure you there are chops aplenty, but they never once clutter the grove. It's just beautiful.
Then, Chicago take the stage, choosing to open with some fairly bland obscure material, which is especially stark given the immediate contrast to the remarkably powerful set they are following. They do warm up as the set progresses, but in my opinion never equal the EWF show, though it's be no means a bad overall performance. To their credit the percentage of original members is much higher.
While members from both bands "guest" during the other's solo set, I was hoping that each band would choose a tune from the other and do their own arrangement of it, but alas this was not to be.
I want to specifically discuss the mix, as in my experience that is something often overlooked in disc reviews, and it seems to me valid info for anyone investing in gear taking advantage of blu-ray capability. I used the DTS HD Master Audio 5.1 mix for this review, played in a well equipped and balanced theatre setup. The mix uses the rear speakers sparingly; I think a bit more of the crowd response would have been fun. Once in awhile one of the instruments will show up there too. The mix when the two bands are onstage together is wonderful, as is the mix of EWF. However, Chicago's set, for no apparent reason, was rendered thin. There is no reason why a band with two keyboardists shouldn't sound fuller, and at times the harmonies and the occasional string line seemed too far back in the mix. Also, the toms were continually mixed far lower and out of balance than the rest of the drumkit, so quite a few of the drum riffs intended to add power were rendered weak. On a positive note, I found the recording of the cymbals of both kits to be some of the most pristine capture I've heard on any disc.
Forget extra materials; there aren't any, save for a drum and percussion dual which might have been better served left in the concert itself rather than isolated.
Overall you will really like this disc, from both a visual and audio standpoint. Can't go with five stars for the reasons listed, but it's a solid four star, and well worth a listen.

Couldn't agree better than with the previous feedback. This is an awesome concert with lots of EWF and Chicago's catchy tunes. What a synergy between the two bands! Video is presented in 1080i/60, which is totally acceptable for concerts. It's brilliantly filmed. Audio is either 5.1 DTS HD MA, 5.1 Dolby Digital, or PCM 2.0. Both 5.1 surround sounds are great, but no doubt the DTS HD MA sound is superior to the Dolby Digital one. As far as concerts on Blu-Ray are concerned, only Shakira would top this one in my opinion. Better get both!

I had a real good time with this blu-ray that features a great PQ (AVC coding) and amazing AQ (DTS-HD MA 5.1/2.0). I almost felt like "being there". The combined showcase from Chicago & EWF is very entertaining and enjoyable. You can't just sit down and watch; you will find yourself stand up and shake your body (like all the audience in the Greek Theatre)! I have been a big fan of EWF's and the band is simply amazing in the concert even without Maurice White. Philip Bailey is such a great musician with his great voice and covers M. White's spot very well. He also can play the kalimba as Mr. White does! V. White, who is co-leader and plays the bass, makes us smile and happy with his passionate gestures. As for Chicago, I have to admit I wished Peter Cetera had been there. They are still good but, to me, not enough without the former lead singer. Before I watched the concert, I had no idea what had made these two bands do a concert together. Now I know they have some connections: both of them are brass bands and EWF's "After the love has gone", which the both bands sing and play together, was co-written by Chicago's Bill Champlin.

Here's my conclusion: get this blu-ray and have a great time especially when you want "cheer-up" and dance!

I enjoyed every minute of this music DVD. Since I grew up during this music era, I've always wondered of a joint concert with the great 70's and 80's "large" bands. This is as real as it gets. If you loved listening to "Chicago" and "Earth, Wind & Fire", you'll love this joint "live concert" DVD as well, or more. Tower of Power is the other group from the 70's that I would like to see in a joint performance.

It's amazing to see these two great bands together in a concert. I recommend this DVD to everyone who loves their music. It's a spectacular concert.