(Eagle Vision, 124 minutes)

www.eaglerockent.com

BY BILL HOLMES

Seems only logical that a band as majestic in scope as Procol Harum should be seen in a regal setting, so the breathtaking grounds of Denmark's Ledreborg Castle is as appropriate a choice as any. Performing an afternoon show in what looks like a circus tent, the band is in excellent form, aided and abetted by the Danish orchestra and choir. Founding member Gary Brooker might look like Malcolm McDowell's stunt double but he remains in great voice, and the 2006 edition of Procol Harum owe no apologies to prior lineups for their interpretations of career milestones.

Sound is excellent, and the camera work is very good for the most part; not too jumpy, focusing on the correct musician during a solo and occasionally sweeping over the massive hillside crowd that is as varied in age as the Danish orchestra and choir. Brooker, always elegant, is right at home in this setting, especially during set pieces that benefit best from the added instrumentation, like "Grand Hotel" and "Homburg" (the latter reminiscent of a film score). Guitarist Geoff Whitehorn, resembling a slim Leslie West, lights up several tracks with great guitar tone and an impish grin; the remaining band members are tight and competent but reserved in nature (the Danish conductor, on the other hand, is extremely animated). Although one would think "A Whiter Shade of Pale" would be the highlight, it (ahem) pales in comparison to a breathtaking rendition of "A Salty Dog"; Brooker's passionate vocal is the emotional centerpiece of the beautifully performed epic. Aside from the tepid "VIP Room" there are no clunkers among the fifteen tracks, with "Conquistador", "Fires" and "Simple Sister" (complete with the choir doing their best "We Will Rock You" intro) the other high points.

As a bonus feature, a six song Danish television performance from 1974 is also included. The show is staged in some odd all-ages pub setting but boasts surprising clarity for a thirty-five year old recording. An interesting bookend of sorts for a still relevant group.

Special Features:  1974 TV Special (6 tracks).