Some say that the Rolling Stones are the yin to the Beatles’ yang, with the Stones’ bluesy punk in direct contrast to the grandiose ballads and sophistication in production of any Beatles’ album. This documentary examines the second half of the 1960s, a time when the Stones’ sound developed the trademark style that has made them legends.

This transformation was mainly a result of the songwriting partnership of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, as seen in the group’s fourth album, 1966’s Aftermath. The next year, the band released Between the Buttons, and a police raid of Richards’ home led to the arrest of both Richards and Jagger.

In the midst of the media frenzy that ensued, the band focused on writing its next album, the psychedelic Their Satanic Majesties, which divided critics. Also during this time, Richards immersed himself in records he bought when they had toured the United States: especially music from the south, Bob Dylan and the Band.

In February 1968, the band announced they’d be working with producer Jimmy Miller, a collaboration which brought the right amount of Americana to the Stones’ Brit pop, culminating in the single “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” and Beggars Banquet. Turning away from “flower power” and tapping into the soul of American music on Beggars, Jagger found his voice as a writer, evident on songs like “Street Fighting Man.”

Under Review retells all of this history through rare performance footage, photographs and interviews with music journalists and musicians that have worked with the band. But since it is unauthorized, the DVD does not include any interviews with the band members.

Extras: Keith Altham remembers the Beggars Banquet press reception, interactive gaming feature, contributor biographies and Beyond DVD section.

Grade: C

Under Review 1967-1969 is currently available.