Run-D.M.C. Album: “Live at Montreux 2001 [DVD]”

Its hard to express how disappointed with this DVD I am. But truth be told, this DVD really illustrates why Run DMC had to break up with the death of Jam Master Jay; prior to seeing this DVD, the decision baffled me. After seeing the performance (term used loosely), its clear as day.

First off - to answer Run DMC's own rap song question: Is it Live? The answer is a resounding "NO". 95% of the music - above and beyond rapping - is essentially straight off of the original CD. Which turns out to be a good thing, explained shortly. Your better off buying any of Run DMC's classic CDs.

Run, if a little larger, still has a great voice. He tried to rap over the CD playing in the background in futile. Jam Master Jay essentially is the entire show. Without Jay, the "concert" is largely a snore-fest. I always liked Jay; I didn't know he was the most talented of the three.

Speaking of talent, the biggest problem with this DVD and perhaps with Run DMC in general is that Daryl McDaniels, my favorite of the threesome, is devoid any talent. What the hell happened to this guy?! I was beside myself as I watched him talk his lyrics. I could have done a better job with his own raps than he did! It truly was painful to watch and listen to. He clearly isn't comfortable live in concert, and his voice is nothing similar to the past. This caused me to research DMC's history. I've read various accounts of voice pain, problems, etc. causing him to adjust his once powerful baritone voice to a whiny, nasal nerd.

I now believe in Alien Body-Snatchers. Whomever took the real DMC and left this pale imitation also took Michael Jackson. Maybe the body-snatchers use a talent-stripping ray on humans? I don't know, but if you love Run DMC, avoid this DVD at all costs.