Dar was her usual charming self, with Stephanie Winters, as always,
enriching her sound.
But the show-stealer was Richard Thompson, who played last. His charm,
impish ways, sly smile, perfect timing with his banter and great songs
were a delight. He sang a song about rejection - "If You Don't Want Me,
I'll Dry My Tears and Move On". It's such a simple idea, such a simple
lyric, but in with Richard's voice and guitar, it carries such powerful
emotion.
For an encore, Richard was flanked by Bruce and Dar for Pete Seeger's
"Turn, Turn Turn", which Bruce did on the Pete Seeger Tribute album. A
fitting end to a nice show. 3/4 full at the Mann, at $30 a tkt., makes
me wish that the seats had been cheaper and more folks in attendance.
Also, the 2 guard/types sitting in front of the stage staring out at the
audience the entire time were a bit distracting. Like, I wasn't planning
to rush the stage, and it's not a Who show. But that's show business,
not the back yards and kitchens of folk music.
Thanks to New Park Entertainment for putting on the show. They have a
contract for the Mann this summer, and they've got a great lineup,
including Ani next week, and the Chieftans + Sinead O'Connor tonite.
And, speaking of great lineups, WXPN's singer/songwriter weekend at Penns
Landing in July features Lucinda Williams and Patty Griffin. At $5, the
price is right, and it's outdoors, perfect for summer.
And now to Buddy - Buddy Miller's CD Poison Love contains a gem - 100
Million Little Bombs.
And to Judy - Judy Garland's the subject of a front page piece in the
Arts and Entertainment section of today's NY Times. The author states,
"All aspiring artists should listen to this tiny woman----". So true.
Though not a folk singer, Judy Garland had an ability to touch the hearts
of her audience, and in her special way, she set the standard for solo
musical performance. I never saw her but wish I had. Saw Liza once, and
that made me want to see Judy Garland even more.
The Times piece is great. It even sent me to the dictionary (cloying).
Happy Sunday! DB