Great show! Three hot virtuosos whose energy won't quit! Whit Smith plays intricate and interesting guitar riffs with a speed and accuracy that leaves guitar-player wanna-be's astounded and with a tone and style that leaves everyone well satisfied. Jake Erwin must burn about 40,000 calories keeping that bass going all night. His slap bass energy is incredible, and the percussive sound drives much of the group's music, If anything, I'd like to hear a bit less of the percussion, though, and a bit more of the actual bass line. Elana James; what can be said of Elana James, the violinist and female lead vocalist. Wow. She has long been my favorite violin stylist, and didn't decrease that reputation any last night! Not only does she have high energy and virtuosic accuracy, she has a way of punctuating the musical arrangements with the perfect imaginative embellishments, different and appropriate for every song! Her voice is honey! And it doesn't hurt that her bright eyes and facial expressions (mostly smiles!) keep your eyes rivited! All of this and a music selection of gypsy jazz, Texas swing, Tin Pan alley, country classics, traditional tunes, and originals that sets them apart from just about everybody else. It's been 8 years since they last played The Ark. Let's hope they come back quickly. If they do, don't miss them!
The Ark @
- Ann Arbor @
, MI @
- Mon, Sep 28, 2009 @
Favorite moment: Eva's Waltz - the only 3/4 tune in their set list, and a welcome mood swing from the energy of the rest of the night. @
Setlist: Reunion, Heart of Romain, Columbus Stackade Blues, Chinatown, Ida Red, Orange Blossom Special, Pussy Pussy Pussy, Bonaparte's Retreat, I Had Someone Else, You Don't Care What Happens to Me @