Anyone who has ever viewed a tribute concert or event that is well intended but ultimately misses the mark will be very pleased by this concert.

All the right ingredients are in place here. There is a respectful maturity and dignity to “Concert for George” that honors the music and life of George Harrison in the most appropriate manner imaginable.

In many ways, Harrison, himself set the template for this concert when he organized the “Concert for Bangla Desh” over 30 years ago. The structuring of the concert - beginning with an Indian music segment that leads to a ‘western’ music finale - is very reminiscent of that event.

The participants of the concert were selected in relation to their friendship with George as opposed to their celebrity status. There’s a genuineness in the performances, in terms of musical quality and  faithful delivery of George music, along with an abundance of love and affection.

Here are some highlights (in a concert full of highlights):

Ravi and Anoushka Shankar’s ‘east meets west’ Indian music segment and Eric Clapton’s accompaniment on acoustic guitar.

The greatly under rated Jeff Lynne’s vocal performance of  “The Inner Light”.

Sam Brown’s gospel feel performance of “Horse to the Water”.

Tom Petty and the Heartbreaker’s rendition of “I Need You”. The guitar tone is note perfect.

Paul McCartney and Eric Clapton’s performance of “Something” and “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” - with Ringo on drums. Just the right amount of buildup on both.

Paul McCartney’s vocal on “All Things Must Pass” (a song in which a ‘spot on’ vocal is crucial).

An unexpectedly perfect ending: Joe Brown’s “I'll See You In My Dreams”. Have tissue in hand for this one.

A few minor weaknesses:

Ringo’s performance of “Honey Don’t” is misplaced but forgivable - as is the “Hey Jude” twist on an otherwise fine “Isn’t It a Pity”.

George’s music - and that of the Beatles - has been a part of my DNA for over 30 years and as witnessed by this event, many people share this state. There simply isn’t enough good things to say about this concert.

There’s a level of emotion present that’s difficult to describe in print but can only be generated by genuine love and affection. Many glances were exchanged and tears were shed during this performance. Now, as a viewer, it’s your turn to do likewise.

For anyone who’s too familiar with ego driven “rock star” events or the current crop of manufactured “idol” telecasts masquerading as genuine talent, “Concert For George” is a refreshing change of pace. It demonstrates that under the right conditions, popular culture can still produce an event that elevates itself beyond the norm and approaches something that can be considered art, in the classic sense.

The DVD

In addition to the theatrical version, the full concert is wisely included on a separate disc. While the theatrical version conveys the spirit of the occasion, the full concert bears up well to repeated viewing and will be referenced more often.

Since the DVD was released (on November 25th in Canada), I’ve been playing it repeatedly without fatigue - which is not something I can claim about many other music DVDs.

The DVD set includes an elaborate program booklet which is light years ahead of most other DVD booklets.

Extra features include “behind the scene” footage as the Indian musicians, Monty Python players and “George’s band” prepare for the concert. In addition, there is a series of interview clips not included in the theatrical version.

The CD

The CD omits the Monty Python segment and (oddly) Sam Brown’s “Horse to the Water”. My recommendation - buy the DVD. There's more content and the sound is excellent. The CD is mainly a loyalty purchase for those with deep wallets.