Live at Montreux 1982 & 1985

Released in 2001, was a historically significant recording in purely audio form, but the 2004 DVD release ups the ante by providing video footage of both sets. The 1982 show is essentially the show that got his career started. He met both and after his set, and they were so impressed that volunteered use of his studio (for free!) for to record what would become his debut album, and recruited him as lead guitarist for the album and tour (alas, the tour was not to be). However, not everyone was so impressed. In fact, there are choruses of boos that follow nearly every tune. was basically a nobody at the time, playing very electric at the end of a mostly acoustic program. But he had done enough bar gigs to completely rise above it, and he plays with the passion and hunger of a young musician getting his big chance. He's not really an engaging frontman at this point in his career, but man, can he play that guitar. And he simply never lets up. Even at this stage, his tone and style are pretty close to fully formed, and it's easy to see how he could become the guitar hero he ended up being. The 1985 show is quite a contrast. had become a star, and it shows in so many ways. He had developed more of a stage persona, with showier moves and infinitely more presence as a frontman. He's also dressed to the hilt, looking like some sort of '80s cowboy-pimp with a ridiculous hat, multiple scarfs, and gigantic earring. Heck, even is sporting fancier '80s pants and a big earring, and 's hat is more extravagant than the 1982 show as well. also now included on keyboards, which, along with 's addition of a wah-wah pedal, really expanded the sound. has many fiery moments on this set as well, but he also loses focus during several solos, and seems more than content to share or even hand over the spotlight to fellow Texas guitar legend . seems a bit worn out, and it wouldn't be long before he got sober. Even so, there are clear moments of brilliance and this time the audience is fully behind him. is a vital document for fans, showing the raw ingredients that would make him a star, then comparing it to what happened once he got there. The video is great, with multiple angles throughout (except for the encore of the 1985 set) and there are many excellent close-ups of his playing. It's a great look at the rise of one of 's most revered guitar players. ~ Sean Westergaard