Music DVD review

NORAH JONES

Live from Austin TX New West ***

Record and DVD label New West usually throws out televised performances (recorded for the Austin City Limits tv series) that are at least a decade old. But, as befits a recently minted superstar, this is contemporary (June 2007). Most of us know the Norah Jones story: daughter of Indian sitarist Ravi Shankar, clued-in purveyor of classy blues/jazz/soul/pop, and someone whose music is wholly unsuited to large venues. This loose, enjoyable show features subtle music played in a small, warm venue, and because of it you can see Jones engage with the audience and music far more readily than if she were playing in a barn. The songs, too, benefit from such a casual approach. No extras, unless you include guest vocal slots from M Ward. www.live fromaustin tx.com

TONY CLAYTON-LEA