DVD review Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles (Jan/Feb 2006)

"A must have for any self-respecting medieval renaissance tradtionalist"

BLACKMORE'S NIGHT
'Castles & Dreams'

You have to respect Ritchie Blackmore. When he left the world of hard rock behind, he left to persue his renaissance musical muse. Four full-lengths in and the Man In Black is still so in tune with his vision that he refuses to tour his venture in contemporary halls, instead only agreeing to play in castles. This double DVD captures the unit live at a medieval faire in full renaissance garb. The 2000 lucky Germans who crammed into the castle (soom of whom played dress up as well!) were witness to an inspired set list capturing the highlights of the band's catalogue, as well as a couple of Deep Purple surprises. The sound and picture quality here are pristine, the visuals further enhanced by the shapely, sultry appearance of Blackmore's damsel, one Candice Night. Lucky old bastard. Anyway, the main concert piece is sufficient enough to warrant purchase, but the package also comes crammed with cool extras: behind the scenes documentaries, TV appearances, videos and the band playing live in a restaurant all minstrel-like. A must-have for any self-respecting medieval renaissance traditionalist! (rating: 8.5 out of 10) - Chris Tighe