The DVD begins with Axl Rose choosing to introduce the never-fail-to-get-the-crowd-moving ‘You Could Be Mine’ with an impersonation of Arnold Schwarznegger. Fair enough. The song was famously used in Terminator 2. But Axl manages to make Arnie sound like Sean Connery.

A more passable impression is Rose’s of AC/DC front man Brian Johnson. It’s plain to see, let alone hear, that Axl has lifted the distinctive screech of Johnson. Both men put their vocal cords on the line every time they put mouth to mike, which may explain why the pair of them are irregular tourers.

There’s a slight blip after the opening track with a drum solo that’s marching-band tedious. The fast-forward button on the remote control was surely invented for moments like these and mine is swiftly utiliized. Things pick up with fan’s favourite ‘Sweet Child O’ Mine’, which is actually on Appetite for Destruction rather than Use Your Illusion 2. As is the Chilis-esque ‘Rocket Queen’. So, thank the lord, Guns N’ Roses aren’t pedants. Other highlights include a pretty straight rendition of ‘Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door’ and rock ballad supreme ‘Estranged’.

At the show’s close, the band, along with their sexy sax quartet and sultry backing singers, join arms and take a bow. They’ve earned their applause. Recognition must also go out to the poor sod(s) who help Rose with his numerous costume changes. He switches outfits more often than a catwalk model. Now I wonder if they managed to stifle a grin when he stepped out in a frankly hideous lumberjack shirt and kilt combo. I certainly didn’t.
(4/5)

Release Date: 12 January 2004

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Use Your Illusion 2 World Tour - 1992 In Tokyo