(Shout Factory, 75 minutes)

www.shoutfactory.com

BY BILL HOLMES

Within seconds of the opening number ("I've Got a Flair"), one instantly recalls how consistent and underappreciated Fountains of Wayne has been since dropping their great debut album upon us. Misunderstood pop savants, their shark fin broke the popular ocean surface only once with "Stacy's Mom", and then - of course - they were reviled by the underground pop hipsters for selling out and having a commercial hit. Never mind that it was an infectious and clever song (albeit a Cars knock-off) and not even among the top dozen tracks in their repertoire. Perhaps that explains the dour expression usually seen on singer Chris Collingwood's face in other live videos, a mood that thankfully seems to have disappeared for this engaging and enjoyable performance. Indeed, the front line of the band looks like they're having fun; Adam Schlesinger's animated vocals and Jody Porter's rock god poses do their best to fill the huge stage. (Drummer Brian Young and versatile additional musician Steven Gold are pasted far upstage).

The set list is strong, of course - tracks like "Denise" and "Red Dragon Tattoo" are lively pop nuggets and both "Survival Car" and "Bright Future in Sales" are standout rockers. The stripped down "Hey Julie" will send one racing for their Rubinoos albums. Fans know that "Radiation Vibe" usually contains a lengthy midsection where the band playfully incorporates a medley of classic tunes like ""Hot Blooded", "Jet Airliner" and "Twilight Zone", but either they skipped that routine this night or it was edited out to avoid the cost of royalty payments. But that's a small nit to pick - the show is strong. Track after track, the juxtaposition of ear candy melodies and clever, character-driven lyrics confirm the wealth of great material they're produced in just a few albums.

As solid as the concert is, the real treat on this DVD is the five acoustic performances by the trio of Collingsworth (almost unrecognizable in beard and glasses), Porter and Schlesinger. It just proves that great songs transcend arrangements, and great songs are one thing Fountains of Wayne have in spades.

Special Features:  Five acoustic tracks.