DVD Verdict: It's hard to figure out the correct way to view this video document. The Velvet Underground were so far ahead of their times and subsequently so influential that I feel it does them a disservice to view this concert recording as a reunion of a band that has ceased to exist 35 years ago. Then again, how good are you at reading Roman Numerals? If you know the system, then you know that this footage is taken from a reunion tour that occurred over a decade ago, in 1993. So, already we have a conundrum; it's a 10-year old reunion show of a band that still retains a strong foothold on the sound of modern music. Therefore, the show featured in 'MCMXCVIII' is contemporary in one (or more) sense(s), and obsolete in another. The first thing that I sensed while watching the first few songs unfold is the lack of rapport between the four members. Lou Reed, John Cale, Sterling Morrison and Moe Tucker don't interact much, and this makes it hard to shrug off the impression that these folks just don't like playing together all that much. Perhaps by design, this adds tension to the proceedings, which is an essential ingredient of the Velvet Underground's music, and probably one significant reason why their music retains its relevance. Regardless of impressions, the fact is that the band sounds really GOOD throughout this show. Lou Reed's deadpan vocals never strain (of course they don't), and his guitar playing continually manages to convey control and power, despite some technical ineptitude. With his multi-instrumental abilities, strong vocals, and engaging stage presence, John Cale brings panache to the proceedings, covering all bases without any sign of strain. For reasons that I cannot explain, Sterling Morrison is seen only occasionally, making it difficult to judge his exact role (or relevance) in the reformed band, other than to maintain the rhythmic drive when Reed and Tucker veer off into the nether regions. Moe Tucker's drumming remains naïve, but it also somehow brilliantly perfect, giving the band a unique `artful' flavor that sets them apart from everyone else. Anyway, watching 'MCMXCIII' makes me realize how easily the Velvet Underground have managed to avoid the `oldies' tag. This film documents a very interesting show, one that relies on the relevance of the present (well, the present of 1993) rather than on past glories, while simultaneously suggesting that this is one band that will never succumb to the ravages of time. This is a 4:3 Screen Format and comes with no Special Features.
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