The latest releases reviewed

BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN Videobiography Ragnarock Films **

Has there ever been a period over the past 30 years when Bruce Springsteen wasn't popular? Here's yet another DVD outing about the New Jersey giant, this one more a talking heads project than a display of the man's on-stage prowess.

Critical reassessments of major figures in the music world often come across as well meaning if mediocre. The subject is nowhere to be seen, so we have the usual (if substantiated) palaver about how great a songwriter he is, how terrific a performer he is, and where he stands in the pantheon of rock greats.

The insights are hardly "penetrating" (as it states on the DVD cover) or insightful, although some of the anecdotal evidence is spot-on (notably from Mojo's Phil Sutcliffe). Snippets of performances are culled from various TV shows, but there isn't one that compensates for seeing the man in a live setting.

Until Belfast in December, then?

THE FRATELLIS Edgy in Brixton Drop the Gun Recordings/Island ***

Pulp fiction/1950s calendar artwork goes a long way with The Fratellis. The UK band have caused hearts to flutter with their cheeky, chirpy brand of Britrock, and it isn't difficult to fathom their success: the songs are sharp, the attitude is Devil-may- care and the music is the right side of dishevelled.

The Fratellis are eager to share the passion and sweat of the communal experience, and this approach is best exemplified than in this cracking show at London's Brixton Academy.

The band blast through the hits (Creepin' Up the Backstairs, Chelsea Dagger, Whistle for the Choir) and various album tracks. The atmosphere is joyous, infectious and funny (check out the tasty little tunes that are Got Ma Nuts from a Hippie and Vince the Lovable Stoner). Extras include videos and the usual behind the scenes interviews. www.thefratellis.com  TONY CLAYTON-LEA