Philadelphia, PA (19-Jul-86)

#D421.su is a welcome addition to the catalog, especially as there are relatively few 1986 audience videos currently in circulation on DVD.
Audio is quite decent, particularly considering the challenges of recording solo acoustic performances in giant halls like these. There is quite a bit of audience enthusiasm captured which detracts not at all to my ear, on the contrary i find that it enhances the viewing experience.
The Philly video looks better on my TV then the screenshots look on my iBook screen, however, it has consistant minimal shaking. When the lighting is right, sadly rare here, focus and depth are quite nice. Mostly a bit dark and grainy, the video appears to have been shot from the back of the floor. Very few obstructions, and generally pleasant long shots of Bob and Co.
Video from NYC is shot from way back and way up top. Shakes and lack of focus are more pronounced here as is to be expected from material of this vintage shot from so far away.
The less than perfect Video is off set by a classy, good looking, and fully functional authoring job. Again, this fine author has the A/V sync spot on, and this upgraded DVD maintains a very natural and smooth feel that is the mark of the best upgraded fan projects.

The Philly segment captures Dylan and his crew in fine form, both Band and Vocal section are right on and swinging hard. The first highlight on the disc for me is It Ain't Me Babe, solo acoustic, with a lovely call and response with the audience on the refrains. The set with the band is strong and everyone seems to be into it and having fun. Band of the Hand and Ballad of a Thin Man are particular favorites on this DVD for me. Dylan chats up the crowd, funny and sarcastic. Across the Borderline is also a winner, precisely delivered.

The New York clips are nice filler, and the warm audio features a very responsive and engaged yet respectful audience. The solo performances captured here are very nice, if not a top notch video.

The two partial performances captured here leave me wanting to see and hear more, particularly of the Philly material, and are certainly worth having.