TURN-ONS AND TURN-OFFS IN CURRENT HOME ENTERTAINMENT RELEASES : Excellent Good Fair Poor : VIDEOCASSETTES

“Joe Ely: Live From Texas.” Barznton Productions. $19.95. Ten years ago, Ely fell through the cracks of the record and radio industries because his freewheeling music didn’t fit neatly into country or rock. His first live concert video might help introduce him to a well-deserved wider audience because he’s an absolutely riveting performer. On this 1986 tour, which featured Bobby Keys’ blistering sax work, Ely showed a renewed enthusiasm and a promising batch of new songs, four of which are contained here. This bargain-priced video, with its dynamic digitally recorded sound, beautifully captures an hour of frequently scorching music--categories be hanged. Information: (203) 866-6666. 1/2