October 17, 2012
Review by Michael Lederman
The carnival pulled into the Bay Area on Wednesday night. Having read the
reviews and set lists I confess, my expectations were low. I have attended
well north of 30 shows (first Dylan/Band L.A. Forum-Final Show Before The
Flood Tour). I have witnessed greatness and I have endured ridicule from
my friends for trying to find joy in some truly awful joyless efforts. I
think Tempest is one of the landmark productions in Dylans vast repertoire
so seeing no songs from this CD on the set lists added to my apprehension.
Only Bob tours weeks after the release of an acclaimed CD and refuses to
play a single tune from it! As for the show:
Mark Knopfler was terrific. His band created a world music sound that
complimented Mr. Knopflers voice and terrific guitar playing. We were all
reminded of the unique and quickly recognizable style he has created. Just
a great opening to the evening. I must comment that Mark seemingly is
enjoying life on the road to the fullest. He balances the back end of his
axe on his large, protruding belly with incredible skill!!! More power to
you sir! Live it up. As for The Bard....From the lighting to the costumes,
from the dark piano driven tunes, to the bent knee, jab and cross boxer
stanced dance moves...this was a David Lynch movie soundtrack live.
Chilling, moving, ballsy...amazing. Highlights...Visions Of Johanna took
our breath away. Forgetful Heart went from warm to heartbreaking. Ballad
Of A Thin Man was an echo laden haunted house. Like A Rolling Stone was
reimagined as a riverboat gamblers piano driven boogie. If you are hoping
to hear vocals in the style of Johnny Mathis...stay home. Dylans voice,
ravaged by years of non-stop touring, cigarettes and whiskey, renders some
tunes almost unrecognizable while others become a hushed gravely lament.
It has become a great Rock and Roll tradition now-the 'Name That Tune"
Dylan Concert Game Show. I was correct 80% of the time...Joey was a tough
one. With his Oscar proudly displayed on the piano top, Bob Dylan the
Charlie Chaplin of modern American music gave a performance I will
remember...well at least until Friday night when the wife and I catch him
in Berkeley. Carpe Diem Bob.
Michael Lederman
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