It’s 1972 and you’re headed to Madison Square Garden with a $10 ticket clenched in your fist. It’s been 15 years, but finally, Elvis Presley has entered the building. Bad press and a contract with the silver screen had created a hiatus in his musical career, but if Prince From Another Planet offers anything, it’s proof that time does not interfere with this King’s reign.

 

With a tight band, Elvis provides four performances in the heart of Manhattan, highlighting songs that got us all shook up: “Hound Dog,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Never Been to Spain,” “For the Good Times” and a medley of “Teddy Bear”/Don’t Be Cruel.” On the DVD, fan-captured video freezes history as we get lost in the King’s clear blue eyes and with the added press conference, it’s interesting to hear the King’s late-period perspective on matters like his controversial pelvic thrust: “Maaan I was tame compared to what they’re doing now!”

 

Prince From Another Planet is a must-have for not just Elvis fans, but for anyone who appreciates the history of rock ‘n’ roll. “You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me,” he sings, but how much we all do, still.

 

– Melissa Caruso