DVD: Have You Heard Jim Croce (Shout Factory)
Reviewed by Shaun Dale

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It's been 30 years since Jim Croce died, but his songs were so personal and unique that they hardly seem dated at all. Switching between fascinating sketches of some of the greatest characters in popular song and richly emotional love songs (for a man with an apparently very happy marriage, he wrote about heartbreak better than anyone I can think of), Croce's contribution is widely available on sound recordings, but he was gone long before the popularization of the music video, so except for the fortunate souls who were around during his far too brief career, the opportunity to see Jim Croce live has been quite limited. He did make a number of television appearances, though, and this project, produced with the cooperation of his widow Ingrid and his son, performer A.J. Croce, gathers some of the best into one place. Augmented by some photo montages and audio recordings, it's the video greatest hits fans have been waiting for.

Along with the performances, which include Croce demonstrating his legendary story telling skills and the brilliant accompaniment of his ever present partner, guitarist Maury Muehleisen, the DVD features audio commentary by Ingrid and A.J., along with interview segments by Loggins & Messina and Randy Newman remembering Croce, an animated version of "Bad, Bad Leroy Brown" culled from a vintage Sonny & Cher show and other specials.

Primarily, though, it's great music by a great performer, in a way you've likely never experienced it.

© 2003 - Shaun Dale