Posted on Monday 14 July 2008
Lyle Lovett & his Large Band graced the stage at Overture Hall after spending a day circling (sometimes in the wrong direction) the Capital at Art Fair On The Square. It had been a number of years since I last saw Lovett perform, this being my first time in the presence of his Large Band. I was completely floored when the lights came up after the band warmed up the stage to see in excess of twenty people. Large numbers certainly equal large sound and over the course of the evening Lovett guided his band through gospel, jazz, country, bluegrass, and rock numbers.
Lovett balances the enormity of his band with down home Texas charm that he parlays into soft-spoken conversation and storytelling throughout the evening. He paints the whole picture, sets up the songs, and manages to make an entire evening with two thousand others seem like he’s right in your living room.
The Large Band was enhanced by Madison’s very of Fountain of Life choir, who appeared occasionally throughout the night. In addition to his regular cast of characters, Lovett is fortunate to be flanked by Was (Not Was), including “Sweet Pea” Atkinson whose charm, dancing, and vox were standout throughout the night.
Plenty of high points over the almost two and a half hours of music. The opening “I Will Rise Up/Ain’t No More Cane” was powerful and welcoming, “South Texas Girl” remains my favorite track from the latest release, and “If I Had A Boat” will always make for a nice encore. Milwaukee fans have two opportunities to catch Lyle Lovett & His Large Band in Milwaukee on Tuesday and Wednesday at the Northern Lights Theater. It’s a moving experience, one that appeals to broad musical palette’s and provides something for everyone. Recommended.
Myspace: Lyle Lovett
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