Iggy & the Stooges - Live in Detroit

Iggy & the Stooges - Live in Detroit, filmed in 2003 and released in 2004, captures the remarkable reunion of Iggy Pop and the original line-up of The Stooges, apart from bassist Dave Alexander who passed away in 1975. The live concert film features groundbreaking artists Ron Asheton, Scott Asheton, Iggy Pop, and Mike Watt - the latter filling in for Alexander to deliver a high-energy experience, sure to satisfy fans of punk, rock and music in general.

This reunion of the protopunk pioneers is a time capsule that transposes the raw energy of the original 1960s-70s concerts to the 21st century. The film was shot in the band's hometown of Detroit, Michigan - a city known for its hard edge and gritty musical history. This not only provided a nostalgic setting but also a potent energy for the spirited live performance, allowing the band to reconnect with their roots.

Iggy Pop, the legendary lead vocalist, demonstrates his unconventional charisma and stage antics in full force. Known for his wild nature and unfiltered performances, Iggy Pop does not disappoint in this reunion concert film. His voice and performance are opulent in their uninhibited honesty and rawness. This stellar performance serves to remind why he has, over the years, earned the moniker "Godfather of Punk."

Ron Asheton and Scott Asheton, the original guitarist and drummer for The Stooges, respectively, provide the essential backbone for the performance. Their strong, assertive styles embody the robust spirit of punk and rock, complementing Iggy's outrageous energy with their strong, steady rhythms and riffs. Ron's guitar work and Scott's drumming emphasize the band's punk aesthetic while retaining its indomitable spirit, making the reunion feel like a seamless continuation from the band's heydays.

Mike Watt, best known for his work in Minutemen and fIREHOSE, fills in the place of deceased member, Dave Alexander. Despite being a subsequent addition, Watt melds perfectly into the DNA of the band, providing the deep, rumbling basslines that were a signature of Alexander's touch. His flawless integration is commendable, adding an element of continuity to the band, and the way he engages with the music shows deep respect for the band's legacy while still granting his personal spin.

The high definition filming of the concert benefits the viewing of this electric performance. The quality of the filming puts the audience right in the heart of the action, capturing every bead of sweat, every sinewy muscle, and all the raw emotion that courses through the band during the performance. The close-ups help the viewers feel the energy, the passion, and the spirit exhibited by the band members. This, coupled with the impeccable sound quality, allows the viewer to sink into the sonic landscapes painted by the seminal band.

The movie is not just a concert; it is an experience. For long-time fans, it offers a nostalgic ride back to the glory days of punk music. For the uninitiated, it serves as a fundamental entry point into one of rock and roll's most influential bands. It encapsulates both the essence of punk music and a significant part of Detroit's music history.

The atmosphere, the performances, the energy, and the nostalgia all combine to make the Iggy & the Stooges - Live in Detroit a must-watch for music enthusiasts. The raw, uncompromised spirit of the band is palpable through the screen, and the movie leaves no doubt as to why The Stooges are regarded as one of the godfathers of punk.

Revisiting the raw power of punk rock through the lens of their forefathers, Iggy & the Stooges - Live in Detroit from 2004 is a collective memory for a generation and an electrifying introduction for newcomers. Witness the unscripted, uninhibited performance that blends the impromptu nature of punk with the grandiosity of rock, uniquely captured in this stunning concert film. Their music and their legacy are proof that punk's not dead, it's just catching its breath.