George Benson - Live at Montreux 1986

George Benson's Live at Montreux 1986 is an expertly filmed concert that captures one of the world's finest jazz guitarists playing to an appreciative audience at the fabled Montreux Jazz Festival. Released in 2005, this film features George Benson's spectacular performance from 1986, showing not only his unmatched musicianship but also his charisma and rapport with the crowd.

The 1986 Montreux Jazz Festival marked a significant point in Benson's career. Despite having released over 30 albums by then, each brimming with his own unique style, he continued to break new ground, moving fluidly between traditional jazz, R&B, pop fusion, while experimenting with new sounds and atmospheres.

Filmed on the banks of Lake Geneva in Switzerland, the Montreux Jazz Festival has always been a hub for the best performers in the genre, and George Benson was no exception. This great event, often dubbed as the biggest summer music festival in Europe, provides the perfect setting for Benson to deliver a thrilling performance, thus reaffirming his place among the iconic figures in jazz and fusion history.

The concert itself is a smorgasbord of musical delight. Benson’s virtuosity takes center stage, his fingers dancing across the guitar strings, effortlessly blending smooth hands and dynamic picking to reveal lush chords and solos that are simultaneously complex, soulful, and melodious. This film is not just about his technical prowess, though. Benson also works the crowd expertly, engaging the audience with his smooth, velvety vocals, and his radiant stage presence.

Live at Montreux 1986 features Benson playing some of his finest music, with a remarkable setlist comprising both his staple crowd pleasers and hidden gems. One can find his signature tunes, including the timeless classic "On Broadway" and his infectious rendition of "Give Me The Night", drizzled generously with his playful, vibrant improvisations. Additionally, the audience is treated to the softer, more contemplative pieces that reveal the stylish understatement of his talent, such as in "In Your Eyes" and "Moody's Mood". Benson's wonderful range of material stands as a testament to his broad musical palate and his command over various genres and styles.

But Benson was not the only star of the night. He was backed by a phenomenal ensemble of musicians, their instruments weaving intricate tapestries of sound behind Benson's commanding lead guitar. This relationship added another dimension to the flawless execution of the performance, creating musical conversation and a beautiful synergy between each member of the band. Viewers will enjoy the showcase of the collective brilliance that contributes to every successful live show.

This film is also technically impressive, providing a multi-camera perspective that gives viewers an intimate experience of the performance, both on and off stage. The close-ups accentuate the technical finesse of Benson's playing, while panoramic shots encapsulate the excitement of the vast, cheering crowd and energy that electrifies the venue. The viewer experiences the concert as if in the front row, recreating the unforgettable atmosphere of the Montreux Jazz Festival in the comfort of their own homes.

Director Thierry Amsallem did an outstanding job capturing the ambience and dynamics of this event. The editing is crisp, the audio precise, making George Benson - Live at Montreux 1986 not just a film for George Benson fans, but for anyone with an appreciation for fine live music, expertly played and presented.

To appreciate George Benson - Live at Montreux 1986 is to immerse oneself into the depths of jazz, fusion, R&B, pop and more. It is a passport into Benson’s world, a musician at the top of his game, swaying effortlessly amidst the complex melodies, and painting the Swiss summer night with his distinct musical hues.

As a film, it is one that serves as a time capsule, immortalizing a piece of musical history. For fans, it is an ode to Benson's immense talent and a testament to the enduring allure of his music. And for newcomers, it provides a fantastic introduction to a musician whose visionary approach to music and electrifying live performances make him a legend in his field.

George Benson - Live at Montreux 1986 is a stunning exhibition of virtuosity, charisma, and pure musical joy. A must-see film for music lovers everywhere.