November 7, 2013
Loberace Live In Vegas
JC Alvarez READ TIME: 2 MIN.
"Do you love the music anymore?" CeeLo Green asks his audience during his live show from Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas (coincidently the same venue that will soon become the home of pop goddess Britney Spears). For the next two hours, of his out on Blu-ray extravaganza "Loberace - Live In Vegas," the heavy lovin' manic maestro takes the captivated spectators on a musical history lesson - guaranteeing that before the curtain drops you will love music again.
Establishing a residency in Sin City wasn't a hard sell for fans of the more charismatic of "The Voice" judges. CeeLo Green is a natural fit for the all night party town. That his show is a rather pared down stage show than what most of his contemporaries are accustomed to, isn't a surprise either. Green didn't necessarily spend any green on high tech lasers or pyrotechnics - instead he has a squadron of Vegas beauties - daisy dukes and all - that do all the heavy lifting flanking the star.
Green is focused on performing his heart out and sweating himself to some popular renditions of songs that inspired him as a musician. Prince's "Hot Thing," the Jacksons' "Can You Feel It?" and Nile Rodgers disco funk classics come aline, including the infectious "Le Freak (Freak Out)" will resonate with fans. As will Green's own hits including "Ladykiller," "Crazy" and "Forget You." The artist keeps things simple. The stage isn't bogged down by a full-piece band. Only a widescreen video monitor provides the backdrop.
His gaggle of back-up dancers provide the dressing, and during the intermissions, catch an additional guest star or two that pop-up a la Vegas style. The keen-eyed viewer may also recognize a familiar face among the cast. "RuPaul's Drag Race" contestant Shannel makes an appearance as "Boy George" - who (surprise! surprise!) was one of Green's inspirations. Uncomfortable tween song banter aside, "Loberace -�Live in Vegas" is a special thrill into a genuine performer, amidst a sea of mediocracy.
Blu-ray bonus features include a special interview with CeeLo Green himself.
CeeLo Green is Loberace -�Live In Vegas
available now on Blu-ray for $19.98
Native New Yorker JC Alvarez is a pop-culture enthusiast and the nightlife chronicler of the club scene and its celebrity denizens from coast-to-coast. He is the on-air host of the nationally syndicated radio show "Out Loud & Live!" and is also on the panel of the local-access talk show "Talking About".
