With the band’s future somewhat uncertain—Keith Richards had recently been busted for drugs—The Rolling Stones took the stage at took the stage at the Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth. These days, a typical Stones show is a greatest hits parade. However, back in ’78 Mick and the boys priority was to play music from their current album (in this case, 1978’s Some Girls).Even so, fans got plenty of classics, as “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” Honky Tonk Women,” “Happy” and “Tumbling Dice” are included as well.
On stage, Jagger and Richards have undeniable chemistry. Richards is in his element here. He really shines on songs with extended jams; his highlight comes with the group’s rendition of the Temptations’ “Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me).” The rest of the band members—drummer Charlie Watts, and bass player Bill Wyman—are as tight as ever. Ronnie Wood, who replaced guitarist Mick Taylor in the Stones in 1975, has an almost youthful excitement in his playing style.
As one might expect, Mick Jagger takes command of the stage. He even shows some musical versatility by playing keyboards on “Far Away Eyes” and guitar on “When the Whip Comes Down” and “Miss You.” I’ll admit that I wasn’t aware that Jagger really played any instruments, but he shows himself to be more than competent. They guy has incredible energy, and never stops strutting around the stage in classic Jagger style.
On “Happy” (with Richards on lead vocals), Jagger provides some growling backup vocals, which some may dislike, but overall the performance is a highlight of the concert. By the time the band launches into “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” (the last song of the show and one of the best parts of the concert) the crowd is completely fired up. As such, they love it when Jagger playfully tosses a couple buckets of water into the audience. The Rolling Stones are masters at entertaining an audience. If you’re a big fan of the group, Some Girls, Live in Texas ’78 is a must have.
Track List:
- Let It Rock
- All Down The Line
- Honky Tonk Women
- Star Star
- When The Whip Comes Down
- Beast Of Burden
- Miss You
- Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me)
- Shattered
- Respectable
- Far Away Eyes
- Love In Vain
- Tumbling Dice
- Happy
- Sweet Little Sixteen
- Brown Sugar
- Jumpin’ Jack Flash
Originally shot in 16mm, the concert is shown in 1.66:1 at 1080i. The image looks surprisingly realistic throughout. Source damage is minimal, aside from a few specks of dirt here and there. Color is inconsistent, but, the transfer is good for what it is.
The Rolling Stones: Some Girls – Live in Texas ’78 comes to Blu-ray in DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. The track is a solid one, with the band sounding forceful throughout. Each of the band members and their instruments come through clearly, with each individual instrument making their presence felt. The surround channels capture the feel of the performance beautifully.
The following special features are included:
- Mick Jagger Interview 2011 (1980i, 14:56) Done with journalist Paul Sexton in August 2011, Jagger discusses the Rolling Stones’ 1978 Forth Worth concert and other assorted memories from that year.
- Saturday Night Live (1080i, 19:30) This feature concerns the bands appearance on “Saturday Night Live” in 1978. Before the band’s performance is a spoof of the U.S. talk show “Tomorrow,” with Dan Aykroyd playing Tomorrow host Tom Snyder and Jagger playing himself. As for the performances, it’s not the band at its best. They performed “Beast of Burden,” “Respectable” and “Shattered.” Jagger’s voice is hoarse, and the musicianship a bit lacking.
- ABC News 20/20 Interviews with The Stones (1080i, 5:00) A puff piece that originally aired in 1978. Reporter Geraldo Rivera threw out softball questions. He asked Rolling Stones bass player Bill Wyman what he thinks about Jagger as a performer. Naturally, Wyman complimented Jagger: “He’s fantastic. One of the best.” Tough stuff. Not.
