Watch Live by the Bay

Live by the Bay is a fantastic concert film that documents one of Jimmy Buffett's most iconic performances. Shot in 1985 at the Concord Pavilion in California, the film captures the essence of his vibrant and energetic music, as well as the playful spirit of his devoted fans. The movie runs for just over an hour, and it's packed with some of the greatest hits from Jimmy Buffett's career, performed live with the Coral Reefer Band.

The film opens with an aerial shot of the beautiful Concord Pavilion in the heart of California. The scene is peaceful, and the only sound is the soft rustling of leaves in the gentle breeze. As the camera zooms in on the venue, we're introduced to the world of Jimmy Buffett. The stage is set up with colorful banners, banners that read "Parrot Head" in bold letters - a term that has become synonymous with his fans. When the band kicks off the set, there's no stopping the action. The crowd erupts in cheers as Jimmy and the Coral Reefer Band launch into "Migration" - the perfect opening number.

Throughout the movie, we get to see an intimate portrait of Jimmy Buffett's life on the road. He's portrayed as a carefree, happy-go-lucky kind of guy who loves to have fun and play music. The film is interspersed with glimpses of life on tour, including backstage antics, hotel room jam sessions, and personal moments with his bandmates. We also get a glimpse of his family life with his daughter, Savannah, who even gets to join in with the band on stage for a couple of songs.

One of the film's strongest points is the quality of the music. Fans of Jimmy Buffett will not be disappointed with the selection of songs. All of the biggest hits make an appearance, including "Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes," "A Pirate Looks at Forty," and "Margaritaville." But it's not just the hits that make the show so special. The film also features lesser-known tracks, such as "You'll Never Work in Dis Bidness Again," which showcase the depth and range of Jimmy Buffett's songwriting abilities.

As the concert progresses, the energy in the audience continues to grow. Fans dance along to the infectious grooves of "Fins" and sway gently to the soothing melodies of "One Particular Harbour." The sense of unity and joy is palpable, and it's hard not to feel swept up in the atmosphere. Special mention must also go to the Coral Reefer Band, who provide masterful accompaniment throughout the performance. The musicianship is top-notch, and it's easy to see why they've been with Jimmy Buffett for so long.

In terms of production values, Live by the Bay is a well-crafted film. The camera work is solid, and we get a mixture of different angles and perspectives. The editing is smooth, and the movie flows well over its runtime. The sound quality is also superb - every note of every instrument is crystal clear, and the mix ensures that nothing gets lost in the noise.

Overall, Live by the Bay is a must-watch for fans of Jimmy Buffett and anyone who loves great live music. It's a joyous celebration of life, music, and the power of community. Even if you're not familiar with Jimmy Buffett's work, the film is sure to put a smile on your face and a spring in your step. So grab a margarita, kick off your shoes, and let the music take you away.