Watch Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble: Live at the El Mocambo

Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble: Live at the El Mocambo is a concert film that captures the blues-rock legend in his prime. Filmed on July 20, 1983, at the El Mocambo nightclub in Toronto, the film captures Vaughan and his band performing a blistering set of blues and rock'n'roll that showcases the artist's incredible guitar skills, powerful voice, and charismatic stage presence.

The film begins with the band taking the stage to the sound of thunderous applause from the packed club. Vaughan, dressed in a simple black t-shirt and jeans, picks up his guitar and launches into the opening riff of "Testify," a song that sets the tone for the evening's high-energy performance. From there, the band launches into one smoking track after another, including "So Excited," "Voodoo Chile (Slight Return)," "Pride and Joy," and "Texas Flood."

Throughout the evening, Vaughan commands the stage with his virtuosic guitar playing, moving seamlessly from scorching solos to soulful acoustic ballads. His playing is raw and powerful, but also incredibly precise and well-crafted. Double Trouble, the rhythm section of Tommy Shannon on bass and Chris Layton on drums, provide a tight and funky groove that backs up Vaughan's guitar wizardry perfectly.

In between songs, Vaughan shares stories and banter with the audience, showcasing his playful and charming personality. He even invites a young fan named Jake, who he calls his "good luck charm," up to the stage to sing along with him. It's moments like these that make the film feel like a true snapshot of a live performance, rather than a polished and edited production.

Perhaps the most powerful moment of the film comes during Vaughan's solo acoustic performance of "Rude Mood." Stripped of the band's electric sound, Vaughan's acoustic guitar playing is no less powerful, evoking the spirit of the Delta blues masters he so admired. It's a haunting and beautiful moment that showcases the depth of Vaughan's musical talent.

The film concludes with a fiery rendition of "Love Struck Baby," followed by an encore of "Lenny," a slow and soulful ballad that lets Vaughan's guitar sing like a human voice. As the song fades out and the lights come up, it's clear that the audience has witnessed a truly unforgettable performance.

Filmed on 16mm film by director John Derek, the concert footage is raw and unpolished, but also incredibly intimate and immediate. Derek's camera captures the sweat and energy of the band as they play, taking us right onto the stage with them. The film has been remastered for its release on DVD and Blu-ray, but maintains the gritty feel of the original performance.

Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble: Live at the El Mocambo is a must-see for any fan of blues or rock music. It's a rare chance to see one of the greatest guitarists of all time at the height of his powers, performing in an intimate club setting. The film is a testament to the enduring power of Vaughan's music, and a fitting tribute to a musician who left us far too soon.

Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble: Live at the El Mocambo is a 1991 musical with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes.