Reviewed by Ewan Jones

'Finale' is a document of Larry's last official solo concert, filmed in New York on 4th August 2007, six months before his death. It features Larry playing 10 songs including a closing piano medley of some of his classic tunes. Perhaps half of the 95 minutes show sees Larry sharing alternately amusing and serious anecdotes about his past; subjects range from his rocky relationship with the Church, reminiscences about John Lennon, his hospital visit surrounding his first heart attack, his plane accident (that he cites as the reason for his occasional erratic behaviour) and how he survived a murder attempt in Russia. Some of these events have been documented/verified, some haven't, but certainly make for fascinating monologues. He speaks of his love for sharing the Gospel no matter what and shares humbly about how God has used his ministry to influence untold numbers for Christ. As for the DVD itself, the multi camera filming is rough around the edges to say the least - cue effects that would not have looked out of place on the Whistle Test, wobbly zooms, fuzzy long shots and dodgy white balance. However, these "flourishes" only endeared me more to the whole presentation and offer a moving parallel to Larry's fragile, waning voice and frail features. He forgets his lyrics and fluffs chords but no one minds because he delivers his songs with such flare and vulnerability that every member of the audience roots for him and sings along. He recalls troubles and glory moments from times long ago with glazed eyes, as if it was a lifetime ago and he knows that his time is short. Larry apologises for going slow saying that although his body is 60 years old, he's 90 inside. It's sometimes heartbreaking to watch but is as witty, honest and out there as Larry ever was, and succeeds as a fitting and fascinating tribute to this influential musician and Christian. 2 Corinthians 4:7 "But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us."

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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