Movie/DVD Review

"They say that more people are afraid of speaking in public than are afraid of death, and they say singing in public is worse,” explains Michael Franti mid-set. “Anybody that wanted to sing in public but were afraid to, you’re it,” he continues, pointing to a woman in the crowd. The chosen one walks up on stage in front of 6,000 people and begins to trade verses, even lets loose on guitar with the barefooted frontman during “Feelin’ Free,” which more or less turns into a version of Australian Idol. It’s with these celebrated candid moments, that Michael Franti and Spearhead have made their live shows a coming out party - turning ordinary folks into a superstar or just encouraging them to let their freak flag fly. He seals the message wih “Stay Human,” singing, “all the freaky people make the beauty in the world.”

Recorded at the Hordern Pavilion in Sydney, Australia, Live In Sydney showcases work featured on his last two Spearhead studio albums – Stay Human and Everyone Deserves Music. But messages aside, it’s the visual DVD half of this DualDisc release that is most stimulating, as the CD side, audio-wise, misses a few beats, and doesn’t pack as much funk in the trunk. Going from angry political rapper in his younger days to soulful humanitarian, the world certainly needs more Michael Frantis. Live In Sydney will surely open your heart and mind up to something good.