Lynyrd Skynyrd - Lyve- The Vicious Cycle Tour

Lynyrd Skynyrd is living proof that nothing stops Rock 'n' Roll, and that you cannot keep a good band down. Over the years the Skynyrd have suffered from bad management, disagreements, and wrong decisions, coupled all the way with personnel tragedy. When the band was on the crest of a wave in 1977, and probably the number one touring band in America, they suffered an infamous plane crash that took away the lives of lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, lead guitarist Steve Gaines, and backup singer Cassie Gaines, leaving the rest of the band with multiple injuries in hospital. Although Allen Collins recovered from paralysis enough to perform live on stage again, his life - as well - was taken from the band by an untimely car accident. Then, at the start of the recording of the album for this tour 'Vicious Cycle', the life of bassist Leon Wilkeson (the cat in the hat) was taken from the band in July of 2001. It says mountains about the present band members as they keep the Skynyrd Southern flag flying.The band's roots can be traced back to 1964, when a certain Ronnie Van Zant started singing lead vocals for guitarist Gary Rossington's school band, but this DVD has been released in celebration of thirty years of recording under the Lynyrd Skynyrd banner, starting 1973 with their first album 'Pronounced Leh-Nerd Skin-Nerd' (named after the nickname of the boys' high school gym teacher). It was not until then they started their meteoric rise to stardom.After the plane crash it took ten years before a band went out on the road under the Skynyrd moniker as a tribute to their fallen brothers. The tour was such a success that it was decided to keep the band permanent, and to tour and record further albums.At first the lineup was quite liquid, but over the last ten years or so it has stabilized to the present formation, which could wipe the floor live with any band that has ever trod the boards. Two original members are still there from the classic lineup. Gary Rossington, from the original three pronged guitar attack, one of the meanest slide guitarists on the planet; and Billy Powell, the only man who can really play that beautiful piano intro to Freebird. Joining them are Ronnie Van Zant's brother, Johnny Van Zant , on lead vocals; Rickey Medlocke on lead guitar, he used to front the magnificent 'Blackfoot'; and completing the triple axe barrage is Hughie Thomasson (ex 'The Outlaws', perhaps one of the most underrated country/rock bands to come out of the south).Then replacing Leon Wilkeson on bass is Hughie Thomasson's old band mate Ean Evans. Powering the band from behind the skins is Michael Cartellone. You have to be a very fit young drummer to keep up with these cats. Carol Chase and Dale Krantz Rossington add backing vocals, bringing the Lynyrd Skynyrd contingent up to nine. If they were not flying under the Skynyrd flag, they could truly be called the Southern Rock All Stars.For this special concert to be recorded for a live CD and DVD, they have also included a brass and string section to add more dynamics to the sound. But do not fret, you hardened Southern Rock fans, it takes none of the Skynyrd gruff vocals and roaring guitars out of the mix. In fact, this is the best I have ever seen or heard the band play, and that is from someone who saw the band twice in the mid Seventies.Neither is this just a run through of greatest hits from a bygone era. The newer songs are mingled in with the older classics, and believe me, you cannot hear the join.Off the new album 'Vicious Cycle' (2001) come two of the concert highlights. The song 'Red, White, and Blue' is the most patriotic song ever recorded. With its wonderfully emotional chorus of "My hair is going white, my neck has always been red, and my collar is still blue," it certainly brings a lump to the throat.At the end of the set another 'Vicious Cycle' song, 'The Way', fits in perfectly between 'Sweet Home Alabama' and 'Freebird'. Now you have to stand pretty tall to stand side by side with those two.Pop down to Tahitian Queen on Beach road for their famous Rock 'n' Roll Happy Hour and request any song from this DVD to be put on the screen. You will not be disappointed."I hope Neil Young will remember."Viciously put by Mott The DogCycled by Ella Crew

Southern Rockers Lynyrd Skynyrd's lastest dvd is from their "Vicious Cycle" tour and was recorded in Nashville,Tennessee at The Amsouth Amphitheatre on July 11, 2003. After watching the dvd I'm convinced this is much better than their "Lyve From Steel Town" concert. The group sounds great and new drummer Michael Cartellone (from the Damn Yankees) sounds great as does new bassist Ean Evans who replaced longtime Skynyrd bassist Leon Wilkeson who passed away recently. The band includes songs from their latest cd "Vicious Cycle" such as "That's How I Like It", "Pick'Em Up", "Red White And Blue" and "The Way". For the first time Skynyrd uses a small orchestra which definately is a nice addition and classic songs such as "Tuesday's Gone" and "Freebird" sound better than ever with the use of the orchestra. The band goes thru their classics such as "What's Your Name", "I Know A Little", "Gimme Three Steps", "Call Me The Breeze", "Sweet Home Alabama", "Simple Man", and a medley of "Gimme Back My Bullets", "Double Trouble", and "The Ballad Of Curtis Lowe". On "Travelin' Man" lead singer Johnny Van Zant alternates singing with his brother, the late Ronnie Van Zant by means of having a screen placed above the group on stage with Ronnie shown singing (from one of the group's 70's concert footage) part of the verse which is recorded perfectly in sync with Lynyrd Skynyrd as they play along. The picture quality of this dvd is excellent and there are alot of closeups of Ricky Medlocke, Huey Thomasson and Gary Rossington playing and alternating guitar licks. The sound quality of this dvd is superb for the most part except that on some songs Huey Thomasson's guitar is not as loud as the other guitarists. This dvd is an absolute must have for Lynyrd Skynyrd fans and those who enjoy listening to seventy's southern rock. Buy it, I guarantee you will not be dissapointed. Highly Recommended!

This is the best Skynyrd DVD yet, and the picture is crystal clear. The stage energy from Lynyrd Skynyrd is unbelievable, and the orchestra was a brilliant idea. Also, the close ups of the guitarists are excellent!Rickey Medlocke - what can you say about this man?! What?! He's been blessed with not only talent, but good looks as well. Rickey looks like the American Indian of the past - towering figure, beautiful hair and a face sculptured by God himself. Medlocke plays guitar standing up and lying down, he sings, he twirls, and he holds the crowd in the palms of his hands.All members are fabulous and greatly talented. At times watching Ean Evans, I feel like I'm looking at Allen Collins. Gary Rossington and his guitar are breathtaking, and the whole band moves about the stage creating a magical force. But there's something else here. You can feel the presence of Ronnie VZ, Steve & Cassie Gaines, Allen Collins and Leon, just by watching the DVD. Lynyrd Skynyrd manages to create a powerful enchantment on that stage.I want to mention the two female singers, Dale Krantz Rossington & Carol Chase, because they are necessary to LS, and it seems they never get the credit they deserve, so I'm giving them credit here! They add a special spice to the band and do a great job.There's only one person on the planet that could step in and take the singing role of RVZ, and that is Johnny VZ. What a great job he does! The tribute to the past members in the Grand Finale is extraordinary; you'll have to see it to believe it! They should all be highly praised for carrying on the torch!

WOW! what a concert this is a must have . Johnny Van Zant did his Brother proud .LOVED LOVED this DVD any Synyard fan will want this

Great Band, Great songs, one of the best Rock Band around, You must have it, simple fantastic !!!!

Sublime Lynyrd skynyrd, ce live est trop fort, concert exceptionnel, ce dvd est indispensable pour tous ceux qui sont fans.

This 2003 live concert account is simply unbelievably good... this is the quintessential live concert of Lynyrd Skynyrd in my humble opinion. The rendition of Simple Man is so darn good... the whole DVD is worth the price of admission to watch just that one song. What a concert that must have been live... I wish I had been there. They are a remarkable band and very true to themselves and the public. Whether you like country rock, boogie and/or blues rock, or plain rock they deliver...and, do they ever!

Purchased to replace stolen DVD. A bit pricey but love it

I have seen the show many times on you tube. I was delighted to be able to purchase a copy of the show for a modest price.