Reviewed by John Cheek

BBC Radio 1's Dominic Byrne doesn't like it. The early sales figures however, suggest that many hundreds of thousands do. 'At The Rose Bowl' isn't U2's first DVD release, but depending on which format you buy, it's probably their most expansive yet. This is simply, an affair between the band and their fans. An opportunity to indulge if you're in the latter category, the double DVD Deluxe Edition is a vast, sprawling package which features the concert from Pasadena, California, and a second disc which has so many extras, it makes the main feature seem like a B-movie. The gig itself is about as well shot as a live concert can be, at the moment; curiously, the opener "Breathe" is left out and later appears, as a bonus track. Either way, it's a decision unlikely to heap much ridicule upon the group as really, only U2 fans are going to be watching this marathon DVD feast. Everything about it reflects the same, high-production values as the modern U2 live experience itself. But for those who aren't fans, there's little of interest here; for those who are, it's a U2 fondue you'll keep dipping into, time and again.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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