After a long period apart (aside from a one-shot reunion for Bill Clinton's 1992 inauguration), the "Rumors" era line-up of Fleetwood Mac -- Mick Fleetwood, John McVie, Christine McVie, Stevie Nicks and Lindsay Buckingham -- reunited in 1997 and the results are breathtaking and magical. This is a group of muscians who simply get better and better with age. The opening number, "The Bridge," brings all the pieces together for a stunning beginning, with the impeccable rhythym section of John McVie and Mick Fleetwood, the incredible guitar playing of Lindsay Buckingham (just watch him pluck the notes from his guitar, why the man is not mentioned in lists of guitar greats is a mystery to me), and the harmonizing of Christine Mcvie, Stevie Nick, and Buckingham. All are in top form, although the voices of Nicks and Buckingham are not what they once were, but they still put every ounce of heart and soul into their performances.The band performs its classic numbers, mixing in a few new songs as well, and each of the singers (McVie, Nicks and Buckingham) perform their signature songs.But it's Lindsay Buckingham who simply steals the show (with Mick Fleetwood right behind him, joyously playing his drums). He performs with passion and incredible musicianship, whether it's his mind-bogling guitar solo on "Big Love" to his performance of "Go Insane" and "I'm So Afraid." Stevie Nicks also has her moments as well, particularly the emotional "Landslide" and "Silver Springs," and the interaction on-stage between Buckingham and Nicks is intense, even if it's the two just exchanging a look."The Dance" on DVD includes many songs not on the CD release and is well worth the purchase for that reason. This is an early-era DVD -- one of the first, really, so for the 21st century viewer, this is not something that is going to look very good on your 52-inch high-def television. It's full-screen, non-anamorphic and looks slightly better than the VHS version. The Dolby Digital 5.1 track is very good, though, and surround sound is used extensively, with a lot of activity in the rear channels. There are no extras, this being an early DVD, but there is an option to enable on-screen lyrics which is a nice touch if you're like me and want to know what exactly is being sung.Fleetwood Mac continued in early 2003 with "Say You Will" and followed that album with a tour (without Christine McVie, unfortunately) and The Mac was still in fine form, even better than they were in 1997. It would be nice to see a remastered, updated version of this DVD, with perhaps some interviews with the band to get their perspective on the reunion. Until that happens, this will have to do. Sit back, turn up the sound, and be prepared to be blown away.
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