Posted by As one of the most significant duos in electro-pop music, the Pet Shop Boys are still as relevant now as they were at the start of their careers over forty years ago and ‘Discovery (Live in Rio 1994) showcases their musical prowess with ease.
Filmed and recorded in Rio in 1994, this DVD and 2 CD boxset is an exhilarating celebration of Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe’s illustrious back catalogue. Featuring classic hits such as ‘Domino Dancing’, ‘West End Girls’, ‘Go West’, ‘So Hard’, ‘Left To My Own Devices’ and ‘Rent’, ‘Discovery (Live in Rio 1994) is ideal for both established fans as well as a fantastic introduction to the Pet Shop Boys to those exploring their material for the first time.
Arguably, the most successful duo in UK music history (take that Robson and Jerome!) the Pet Shop Boys have sold more than 50 million albums and have released 42 UK Top 30 singles – pretty impressive stuff!
From cultural references to political reflections, the bands exemplary song writing highlight their clever take on social commentary coupled with their extraordinary capability to craft instantly memorable songs that have stood the test of time over the last four decades.
Highlights include ‘One In A Million’, ‘Suburbia’, a sparkling version of Blur’s ‘Girls & Boys’ which sounds like it could be original material and a stirring version of ‘It’s a Sin’ which has seen a resurgence in recent months thanks to the TV show of the same name. In fact, sales, and streams of ‘It’s A Sin’ increased by 249% since the series debuted earlier this year.
The footage of the concert filmed by Brazilian director Roberto Berliner in front of a wildly enthusiastic crowd is available to watch for the first time on DVD and demonstrates the consummate professionalism that both Tennant and Lowe bring to the table. It also includes interviews with the band, an on-tour diary from Neil Tennant, and a booklet featuring candid photos of the tour.
Rio is one of the best destinations in the world to have a party and if you are looking for a party atmosphere without travelling to Brazil, then ‘Discovery – Live in Rio 1994’ will have you shaking your tail feather and then some.
9/10
Words: Emma Harrison
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