Watch Jeff Beck - Live In Tokyo

Jeff Beck - Live In Tokyo is a mesmerizing and awe-inspiring concert film from 2014 that captures legendary guitarist Jeff Beck's performance in Tokyo, Japan as part of his 'Emotion & Commotion' tour. Directed by Matt Askem, the film showcases Beck's virtuosic guitar skills, his distinctive tone, and his remarkable musical range as he performs a selection of hits from his extensive discography alongside covers and collaborations with a host of talented musicians.

The film opens with footage of Beck's arrival in Japan, as he rehearses with his band and interacts with fans before taking the stage at Tokyo's Zepp DiverCity venue. The concert itself is a seamless blend of classic Beck tunes, including 'Freeway Jam' and 'Led Boots', as well as newer material such as 'Hammerhead' and 'Emotion & Commotion'. The setlist also features some spectacular cover versions, including an electrifying performance of Jimi Hendrix's 'Little Wing', featuring a soulful vocal performance from talented vocalist Beth Hart.

The chemistry between Beck and his bandmates is palpable throughout the concert, as they navigate complex time signatures and intricate arrangements with apparent ease. Drummer Narada Michael Walden and bassist Rhonda Smith provide a solid foundation for Beck's lightning-fast guitar runs and soaring solos, while the addition of an orchestra on select tracks adds an extra layer of grandeur and drama to the proceedings.

One particularly noteworthy collaboration on the night comes in the form of a tantalizingly sensual rendition of 'Corpus Christi Carol', featuring stunning vocals from Olivia Safe. Beck's guitar work on this track is particularly impressive, as he creates a haunting and ethereal atmosphere that perfectly complements Safe's haunting voice.

The concert culminates in a rousing encore, with Beck and his band delivering a blistering rendition of 'A Day In The Life' by the Beatles. The performance is elevated to new heights by the addition of the orchestra, whose sweeping strings and thunderous percussion drive the song to its climactic finale.

Visually, the film is stunning, with Askem and his team capturing the concert in crisp, high-definition detail. The lighting design is particularly impressive, with moody blues and greens giving way to fiery oranges and reds as the concert progresses, creating a dynamic visual feast that complements Beck's intricate musical tapestry.

Overall, Jeff Beck - Live In Tokyo is a masterful example of the concert film genre, showcasing the guitar wizardry of one of the most legendary musicians of all time. With a blend of old classics and newer material, as well as some incredible covers and collaborations, the film is a must-see for fans of Beck's music and guitar enthusiasts alike. With its breathtaking visuals and jaw-dropping performances, it reminds us why Jeff Beck has rightfully earned his place in the pantheon of guitar gods.

Jeff Beck - Live In Tokyo is a 2015 musical with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.9.