Stars: Johnny Thunders, The Heartbreakers

Summary: In March 1984, ex-New York Dolls guitarist Johnny Thunders re-formed his band, The Heartbreakers, for a series of gigs culminating in a show at the Lyceum, London. Includes interviews, a recording session, and club performance footage. Tracks include: 'Chinese Rocks', 'One Track Mind' and 'Hurt Me'. 16 tracks in total.

A true rock and roll star, Johnny Thunders lived life on the dirty margins. Drug dependency and decadence were part of his everyday existence, and also the cause of his untimely death. Thunders and his band the Heartbreakers are acclaimed for their glam-influenced punk rock, which they produced throughout the late 1970's. DEAD OR ALIVE features a 1984 show reuniting the original members. Their exciting performance of their still-great material includes "Sad Vacation," "Hurt Me," "Chinese Rocks," "Born to Lose," "Like a Rolling Stone," and others. In addition, rare bonus material of the UK Anarchy Tour in 1976, interview footage, and clips from a feature film in which Thunders appeared are also included.

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The only available concert recording of one-time New York Doll Johnny Thunders, Dead or Alive is a must for the devoted fan. The casual observer will find much to involve and interest them, particularly in the light of New York's resurgence as the capital of cool. Musically, Thunders was very much part of the trashy New York punk sound, equal parts glam rock and the Ramones. By the time of this 1984 London concert it seemed that his prime had past, especially when you compare the odd snatch of footage from the band's appearance on the Anarchy in the UK tour of 1977. But Thunders could still swagger with the best of them. The film also features rather bizarre snippets of a French movie featuring the singer's hopeless acting skills and a poignant interview where Thunders gamely tries to concentrate the conversation on his music, despite repeated drugs questions.

On the DVD: The soundtrack is first class, capturing the Heartbreakers in all their skinny tie-wearing, low-slung guitar glory. The picture quality is less inspiring, belying the made-for-TV nature of the recording. There are plenty of extras, including the aforementioned interview with Thunders, some backstage footage and an opportunity to trawl the extensive Cherry Red back catalogue. --Phil Udell

Main Language:	English
Region:	Region 2
Year:	1984
Release Date:	January 5, 2009
Runtime:	64 minutes
Certification:	Exempt.
Catalogue Number:	C R D V D 005 N
Keywords:	Music, Johnny, Rock, Dead, Alive, Heartbreakers, Pop, Thunders, Performing, Arts, Popular
Genre:	Music/Performing Arts