Chuck Berry: Rock and Roll Music (1992)
*** 1/2 (out of 4)
Highly energetic and rocking performance from Chuck Berry that was filmed by D.A. Pennebaker at the Toronto Rock 'n Roll Revival on September 13, 1969.
If you're a fan of Berry then this 47-minute document of that festival is going to be a must-see. It doesn't appear that the entire performance is included here but there's no question that we get some really rocking jams and it captures Berry at one of the best live performances that I've seen. Being from Pennebaker he has cameras set up all over the stage and the crowd so we get some terrific footage.
For example, just take a look at the last song, a reprise of Johnny B. Goode, where we get several close-ups of Berry's face and it seems as if he's non-human just by the way he is belting out the song. Other great numbers include rocking versions of Maybellen, Reelin' and Rockin' as well as Sweet Little Sixteen with a rather funny intro.
As I said, Berry is in great shape and form here as he plays a really electric set that will having you going along with the beat.