Watch Todd Rungren's Utopia: Live at Chicago Theater

Todd Rungren's Utopia: Live at Chicago Theater is a concert film that captures the legendary progressive rock band's performance at the famous Chicago Theater in 2018. This stunning live show features Todd Rundgren on vocals, guitar, and keyboards, Kasim Sulton on bass and vocals, Willie Wilcox on drums, and Gil Assayas on keyboards. Together, they take the stage to deliver a dynamic blend of rock, jazz, and classical music that showcases their unparalleled musicianship.

The film opens with an introduction from Todd Rundgren, who explains his philosophy behind creating music that challenges and expands the listener's perception. From there, the band launches into a thrilling rendition of "Utopia Theme," a fitting opener that sets the tone for the rest of the show. The audience is immediately drawn into the electrifying energy of the performance, with Rundgren's soaring vocals and blistering guitar solos leading the way. Kasim Sulton's bass lines are driving and funky, complemented by Willie Wilcox's nimble drumming.

Throughout the concert, the band moves seamlessly between newer material and classic Utopia tracks, showcasing their versatility and range. Highlights include "The Ikon," a complex and dynamic song that weaves together different time signatures, and "Overture: Mountaintop and Sunrise," a bold and audacious instrumental piece that draws on classical and jazz influences. The band's chemistry is on full display during these intricate pieces, with each member bringing their own unique flair and personality to the music.

In addition to their original material, Utopia also performs several covers, including a funky version of The Beatles' "I Want You (She's So Heavy)" and an epic rendition of Pink Floyd's "Another Brick in the Wall." These songs allow the band to showcase their ability to put their own spin on classic rock hits, while also paying homage to their musical influences.

The concert also features stunning visuals that enhance the performance experience. The Chicago Theater's ornate architecture provides a stunning backdrop for the show, while the lighting design and projections add an additional layer of artistry to the music. From psychedelic patterns to rotating gears and clock faces, the visuals are perfectly synced with the music, enhancing the audience's sensory experience.

One of the standout moments of the concert is when Todd Rundgren performs a solo acoustic rendition of his hit song "Hello, It's Me." The stripped-down arrangement allows Rundgren's powerful vocals to really shine, and the audience's emotional response is palpable. This intimate moment is a stark contrast to the bombastic, intricate pieces that make up the rest of the set, and shows the depth and range of Utopia's musical artistry.

Throughout the concert, the band's energy never wanes, and they close out the show with an explosive encore that includes the crowd-pleaser "Love Is the Answer." By the end of the concert, it's clear that Utopia is a band that has honed their craft to perfection, and that their fusion of rock, jazz, and classical music is truly world-class.

Overall, Todd Rungren's Utopia: Live at Chicago Theater is an electrifying concert film that captures Utopia's legendary live show in all its glory. With stunning visuals and exceptional musicianship, this film is a must-see for fans of progressive rock and classic Utopia tracks alike.

Todd Rungren's Utopia: Live at Chicago Theater is a 2018 music movie with a runtime of 2 hours and 9 minutes.