The 1980s was an era in which a fusillade of new genres emerged, and many are still with us today, such as hip-hop and house. Dylan Jones has mined the archives to select some of the most crucial tracks in the rise of these two genres. From a young Kurtis Blow making his Top of the Pops debut to the sonic bombardment of Public Enemy and the sampling skills of Bomb the Bass, this episode showcases the evolution in rap and house music across the decade. There are rare archival interviews and stellar performances from Run-DMC, Salt 'N' Pepa, S'Express, Cookie Crew and Neneh Cherry, as well as iconic videos from Herbie Hancock, The Beastie Boys, M/A/R/R/S, Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, and many more.
A rare and hard-to-find concert of the band at the pinnacle of their fame. This performance offers an intimate glimpse into the energy and raw talent that propelled Oasis to be Britpop's defining act. Viewers are treated to a setlist brimming with anthems that have since become the hymns of a generation. The program not only features electrifying live renditions but also provides candid insights into the band's dynamics, including the legendary brotherly feuds that are as much a part of Oasis's story as their music. This special is a must-watch for music enthusiasts, offering a unique snapshot of a band that epitomized the spirit of the 90s and continues to influence artists around the globe.
Explore the intriguing world of M.C. Escher in this captivating documentary, which delves deep into his life and artistic journey through his own words. Narrated with excerpts from his writings, the film is visually enriched with archival footage of Escher himself and showcases his iconic drawings. Gain unique insights from interviews with his surviving family members who illuminate aspects of his personal and professional life. Escher, who often described his work as straddling the realms of art and mathematics, admitted to not excelling in either yet found profound expression in geometry-infused art. Choosing to work in stark black and white, he embraced the challenge of conveying complex ideas without the use of color. The film explores pivotal phases in his career, including his mesmerizing explorations of the human eye and his ultimate obsession with the concept of infinity—depicted in real forms like circles and through visual illusions such as his famous never-ending staircase. The documentary also features perspectives from admirers such as musician Graham Nash, who argues that Escher's genius remains underappreciated. This film promises not only to shed light on Escher’s innovative work but also to inspire a deeper appreciation for his unique blend of visual storytelling and mathematical precision.
U2, the '80s sensation, captivated with their unique sound, blending old-school alternative rock's good intentions with epic '70s scale. 'The Joshua Tree,' delves into America's contrasting faces, from vast deserts to big city anonymity and human rights issues. This album is a social snapshot of the late '80s, offering hope amid dark themes. The documentary explores The Joshua Tree Tour in America. Directed by Barry Devlin and Meiert Avis, it features unreleased videos like 'Spanish Eyes' and 'In God's Country.' Discover unseen footage from this iconic band in the 20th Anniversary Edition of 'The Joshua Tree.' Don't miss it!
On 20th and 21st of December 1980, Dire Straits played at the Rainbow Theatre, London. Both nights were recorded for broadcasting on BBC2 television. Cameras were on hand to film the return of Dire Straits from their triumphant 1980 Brothers in Arms world tour. The film features a superb concert they played and band members talk about their music and the pressures and the consequences of success. Rehearsals took place at the Whood Wharf studio in London as well, between March 4-7, 1980, as well as interviews Less than a year later, before the recording sessions for ‘Making Movies’ ended (after Mark admitted that he wished they would continue indefinitely), David would leave the band, never to return.
Edgar Froese, band leader of Tangerine Dream and pioneer of electronic music, is on a lifelong mission to find the ultimate sound. His constant quest takes him and his fellow band members to worldwide success, all the way to the Hollywood studios in Los Angeles. At his death in January 2015, Edgar Froese leaves a legacy of 48 years of music history. The film shows previously unreleased footage shot by the band leader himself: For the first time, we see the band backstage, on tour in Europe and the US, at photoshoots with Jim Rakete or on holiday at the seaside. Records and interviews with his wife Bianca Froese-Acquaye, with band members, close associates and fellow artists map the unique history of Tangerine Dream: a tribute to the musician Edgar Froese and the era of electronic music.
From a young Kurtis Blow making his Top of the Pops debut to the sonic bombardment of Public Enemy and the sampling skills of Bomb the Bass, this episode showcases the evolution in rap and house music across the decade. There are rare archival interviews and stellar performances from Run-DMC, Salt 'N' Pepa, S'Express, Cookie Crew and Neneh Cherry, as well as iconic videos from Herbie Hancock, The Beastie Boys, M/A/R/R/S, Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, and many more.