About This Footage
The grainy footage of Barry Saunders' first rehearsal at Roundhead Studios in Auckland with The Bads is a tantalizing glimpse into the inner workings of a band preparing for a momentous occasion – the 40th Anniversary of The Last Waltz concert. This rare clip, clocking in at just under four minutes, offers a unique window into the creative process of one of New Zealand's finest musicians.
At the time this rehearsal was filmed, Barry Saunders was likely still basking in the glory of his work with The Bads, who had been making waves in the local music scene. But it's clear that he and his bandmates were about to embark on something much bigger – a series of concerts celebrating one of the most iconic rock events of all time. The Last Waltz, held on November 25, 1976, at Winterland Ballroom in San Francisco, was a concert for the ages, featuring the Band joined by an impressive array of special guests, including Bob Dylan and Neil Diamond.
What makes this clip so notable is not just the fact that it's rare footage, but also the context in which it's being presented. The 40th Anniversary of The Last Waltz is a significant milestone, marking four decades since one of rock music's most beloved events took place. And yet, as we watch Barry Saunders and his bandmates rehearsing at Roundhead Studios, it's clear that this is not just about nostalgia – it's about the present moment, and the excitement of bringing new life to a classic.
The clip itself is a fascinating glimpse into the rehearsal process, with Saunders and his bandmates working through songs in a relaxed, almost improvisational manner. It's clear that they're all deeply invested in the music, and that this is not just about going through the motions – it's about creating something special. As we watch, it's impossible not to think about the original Last Waltz concert, and the incredible lineup of musicians who came together for that one night.
One of the most striking things about this clip is the way it highlights the collaborative spirit at the heart of The Bads' music. Saunders, along with his bandmates Brett Adams, Dianne Swann, Mike Hall, Wayne Bell, and Dave Khan, are all clearly working together to create something new and exciting – a fusion of their individual talents and styles that's greater than the sum of its parts.
As we watch this rehearsal footage, it's also impossible not to think about the special guests who will be joining The Bads on stage for these 40th Anniversary concerts. Garth Hudson, The Band's producer and musical director John Simon are both veterans of the original Last Waltz concert, and their presence is a testament to the enduring legacy of that event.
The inclusion of Sister Maud Hudson, Paul Ubana Jones, Kevin Borich, Tami Neilson, Delaney Davidson, Adam McGrath, and world-renowned blues piano player Paddy Milner adds an extra layer of excitement to these concerts – each one bringing their own unique perspective and style to the table. And with Barry Saunders at the helm, it's clear that this is going to be a truly unforgettable experience.
As we watch this rehearsal footage, what strikes us most is the sense of camaraderie and shared purpose that permeates every moment. This is not just about playing music – it's about creating something special, something that will live on long after these concerts are over. And as we're left with a final glimpse of Barry Saunders and his bandmates working together in harmony, it's clear that this is going to be an experience like no other.
Curated from public records and music databases.
