I have to admit that I totally lost track of JJ from the 80's. I go to Strathmore because I love the venue. The treat I had Saturday night, which was the first date of JJ's new tour, was a revelation. The best way to express how good this show was, is that if I knew every song, I could not have enjoyed it more.
First of all, I didn't know that JJ just released a tribute CD to Duke Ellington. So, the song mix was about 50-50 Duke to JJ. The Duke arrangements were very rocked out and a joy to listen to; and, I forgot that I acutally remembered about half a dozen Joe Jackson tunes.
The key to how good the show was, was how fabulous a band JJ put together. First you had the man, himself, an extraordinary pianist and occasional accordianist. The percussion section was hot, with Mike Smith (I think) on the kit and a gal on congas, etc. These folks, along with the bass guitarist (who sometimes played an upright as well as a tuba) were the pulse of the band. If that was it, I would have still been happy.
But, Joe brought in a wonderful violinist and a second keyboard player who also had great vocals (Alison Cornell). These two really made the difference from it being a really good show to being a fabulously unforgettable experience.
Don't miss it!!
Music Center at Strathmore @
- N. Bethesda @
, MD @
- Sat, Sep 15, 2012 @
Favorite moment: When Alison Cornell sang in Portugese and Is She Really Going out with Him-a toss up. @
Opening act(s): None. They played 2 hours and 20 minutes without a break. @