This DVD Is Not Punk Rock by MC Lars
Reviewed by RonG

To me, a music DVD is rarely worth a glance. I'm not all that into rap, punk, or parody tunes. Considering this, it would be worth placing your bets thinking I'd use the MC Lars' DVD as a coaster or Frisbee rather than taking an hour and a half from my hectic schedule to check out this music DVD about a comedy rap artist that tours with a punk band. So you should be shocked when I admit I enjoyed this one. Go ahead, collect yourself.

The DVD shows without narration the steady march from being a small sensation to having a strong international following. The content focus wanders like a bum in the park, weaving about from life on the road, making music, and joking around with friends. Interspersed with these expected shenanigans are a handful of music videos. For the diehard fan (only), MC Lars throws in bonus footage showing clips from his college show and stuff he made as a kid. If you look around, maybe you'll discover a hidden Easter Egg video for the track "Space Game." This buried add-on pairs up an amusing anthem of nerdiness with an ultra-low budget video that mixes up a lot of cheese with a healthy dose of "WTF?"

The reasons for enjoying the music of MC Lars are exposed with this DVD. The guy is funny, smart, and has a self-assured honesty that makes him instantly likable. Beyond that, his do-it-yourself attitude will have you inspired to get your own beats pumping. MC Lars has ably demonstrated that with courage, brains, and a decent PC, you no longer need a manufactured sound, Hollywood appearance, or multi-million dollar deal to find a home in music. Despite what the cover proclaims, here lies an idea that is definitely punk rock.

MC Lars is perched on the crest of a new wave of self-promoting artists bound to make a splash in the coming years. If you are a geek like me and find yourself laughing out loud at his songs, or if you find yourself fascinated by new movements within society and music, check out this DVD. I bet you'll enjoy it.

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