Dead Can Dance Album: “Toward the Within [Video]”

This video is NOT for those of the MTV generation who believe that a song must be accompanied by a "music video." In this video you find yourself front row and behind the sounds of one of the most enigmatic and fantastic bands in recent history. From Lisa Gerrard's hauntingly rich, honeyed voice to Brendan Perry's smoky, powerful ballads, A true fan of music will appreciate this video. Dead Can Dance has a mysterious and unique blend of sounds form India, Asia, the Western world, and Tribal influences from around the globe that leave the listener enveloped, invigorated and in a complete state of awe. This video also takes us behind the scenes to whence the influences have come and personal insights into the sounds that can only have come from a band of this calibre.

I have had the great fortune of seeing Dead can Dance perform live in Boston twice. They have a musical ability that transcends this earth. There is a haunting and rhythmic ebb and flow to their music, seemingly closely linked to moons and the earth.

I would recommed the video as well as any of their CD's. Prepare to be transfixed and transformed!

James West, Charlotte, NC, USA

I saw this video at a local movie theatre. I had only heard one song by DCD and figured it would be an interesting Friday night. I remember thinking throughout the whole show, "What the heck is that instrument? Oh my gosh, that sounds awesome! " The music moves you, the live footage brings it to life and when it is all over, you find yourself yearning to experience it again. This is a definate must have.

This 'live album would be the one I'd introduce a friend to Dead Can Dance. If you already know how close they can take you, strong emotions might pop up during some Gerard's performances! Even if you can't appreciate their style you have to admit they're good.

Toward The Within is the high point of Dead Can Dance's catalog, IMHO. I discovered DCD from this video. Discovered is an understatement. It was more like knocked on my backside by a bolt of lightning.

I have not heard anything like this mixture of music before or since. This band would be equally at home in ancient Egypt, on Babylon 5, or in Vahalla. The way they weave Celtic, Germanic, Turkish, Egyptian, African, and who knows what other influences and instruments with synthesizers and electric bass is unique beyond verbal description.

Lisa Girrard's voice is unbelievable. The video is wonderful because they do closeups while she is singing, and it is quite powerful to see her actually producing these sounds. Her voice is like one would imagine a valkyrie - the power of a tsunami with the delicacy of a hummingbird all at the same time. When you hear some female singers, like Kate Bush, Tori Amos, Enya, etc., you see goddess archetypes like Diana or Isis. With Lisa it is more like Kali. This is feminine energy, but it hits you like a freight train in the chest. Which is not to say it is harsh or ragged. Quite the contrary, she exhibits a control over her voice that is remarkable. She weaves soft Celtic lilting notes with deep, powerful tones, modulated by a Turkish or Berber-style vibrato that is amazing. Think German opera blended with belly dancing music and you will be in the ballpark, although that description really misses the true power and beauty of the songs. This is a woman who makes you feel the goddess in your gut as well as your heart, like Ann Wilson, Tina Turner, Janis Joplin, etc., but with a decidedly surreal twist. Lisa often sings in a language she creates herself, which adds to the mystique of their music. In some ways, she reminds me of Nina Hagen, although Hagen went from opera to more average punk rock. The power and control of their voices feels similar to me. (Your mileage may vary.)

I don't care for the more traditional folksongs, although they are very well done. The quality of the other musicians is superb, and again, watching them in the video gives you an added perspective to the way all the different influences weave together. I love the way the drummer, Ronan, runs in place in time with the music. This man lives his percussion!

If you like world music with a heavy touch of other-worldliness, try out this video. It is not for the faint of heart or those who like common, run-of-the-mill music of any flavor. This is very different stuff indeed.