A Better Place Indeed: Glen Campbell

Thursday, May 24th, 2012 by The Professor

C&W legend Glen Campbell stands tall with courage and grace

by Radio RockonTour host Timothy Tilghman

Saying goodbye is never easy. Most times in life saying goodbye is a luxury many never have the chance to experience. Country & Western legend Glen Campbell now 76 is undertaking a final journey across the American landscape to entertain his legion of fans and provide them with an opportunity to enjoy his music live on stage for one more magical moment.

Glen Campbell was welcomed warmly by an enthusiastic crowd at the American Music Theatre outside historic Lancaster, Pennsylvania, on Monday, May 21, 2012. Only his diehard fans will know that Glen buoyed his music career as a touring musician in the surf music genre as bassist for The Beach Boys before striking out on his own as a successful solo recording artist in 1967.

Instant People appeared as both the opening act and as Daddy Campbell’s support musicians. Three of his younger children, Ashley (vocals, banjo & keyboards), Calvin (drums & guitar), and Shannon Campbell (vocals and guitar) demonstrated their collective talent and professional musicianship as an emerging young group and again on stage backing their iconic father.

Several of Campbell’s signature songs included “By The Time I get To Phoenix”, “Wichita Lineman”, “Rhinestone Cowboy”, and “Southern Nights”. Hearing Glen sing his classic tunes was priceless. Clearly demonstrating that he still has command of the stage, Glen sang a moving rendition of “The Moon’s A Harsh Mistress” with just the accompaniment of his keyboardist T.J. Kuenster who has supported him on the road for 35 years.

While impersonating the cartoon voice of Donald Duck, Glen displayed his comedic talents while having a little fun on stage as Proud Papa prepared to introduce his stunningly beautiful blonde daughter Ashley. Halfway through the show, they played the popular instrumental “Dueling Banjo” together. Ashley twanged away on banjo with Glen jamming on his electric guitar.

The concert repertoire, spoken transitions, and stage interaction were clearly choreographed to act as an instructional guide for Glen on stage. He delivered several accelerated guitar solos and choice vocal performances throughout the evening. Although the actual concert itself clocked in under 75 minutes in length, his loyal fans didn’t seem to mind whatsoever. The standing ovations and thundering applause indicated their admiration and appreciation for his presence in Lancaster was sincere.

Glen Campbell, American Music Theatre, Lancaster, PA, May 21, 2012 setlist: Gentle On My Mind * Galveston * By The Time I Get To Phoenix * Try A Little Kindness * Where’s The Playground Susie * Didn’t We * I Can’t Stop Loving You * True Grit * Lovesick Blues * Dueling Banjos * Hey Little One * Any Trouble * She Thinks I Care * The Moon’s A Harsh Mistress * Wichita Lineman * Rhinestone Cowboy * Encore: Southern Nights * A Better Place

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And Suddenly They Return: The Left Banke

Sunday, May 6th, 2012 by The Professor

The Left Banke generate a storm on stage

by Radio RockonTour host Timothy Tilghman

The Left Banke has a new lease on live appearances. Formed originally in New York City by a handful of young musicians that found themselves seeking similar musical endeavors, Michael Brown, George Cameron, Tom Finn, and Steve Martin joined forces together in a studio and established a unique sound for their fledgling group. Unfortunately with no interest expressed by record labels, the lads abandoned their quest for a recording contract.

As luck would bless them, the initial success of the group was launched on the strength of their debut 1966 single “Walk Away Renee”, which was completed in the studio after their dissolution. As “Renee” began to climb the hit parade, the lads regrouped to head out on tour. Consequently, internal issues arose and the band splintered before reaching their anticipated potential as recording artists.

Reunite, and they will come. Baby-boomers thrive on nostalgia from their collective youth. It is therefore a pleasant surprise that The Left Banke are touring once again. Original members Tom Finn and George Cameron now lead a small ensemble of talented support musicians that honor the traditional sound of The Left Banke. Mike Fornatale handled lead vocals and guitar, Paul Alves guitar, Charly Cazalet bass, Micky Finn keyboards, and Rick Reil was on drums. A string section showcased Carrie Bartsch on violin, Ben Larson on cello, and John Spurney on keys.

The Left Banke delivered a lengthy set at the Robert Parilla Performing Arts Center in Rockville, Maryland, on the Sesquicentennial anniversary of Cinco de Mayo. Playing an extensive battery of material from their catalog, the songs continued to flow one after another. Staging these classic recordings live gave them all a new edge and sincere vibrancy that enhanced the overall performance.

It is thoroughly enjoyable to see a band live that you thought you would never see live in concert. A good deal of the songs were anchored by soaring harmonies and augmented by strings to embellish the material. Of course, the major climax came at the end of the show with the timeless ballad “Walk Away Renee”. The haunting melody still demands attention almost a half century after its original chart success.

Ending on an incredibly important moment, The Left Banke introduced a new song as their singular encore. “City Life” rocked Rockville as the touring entourage turned in a fierce stage rendition hinting where The Left Banke’s new direction may be headed as Finn anticipates recording a new studio album soon.

The Left Banke, Robert Parilla Performing Arts Center, Rockville, MD, May 5, 2012 setlist: She May Call You Up Tonight * I’ve Got Something On My Mind * Pretty Ballerina * Dark Is The Bark * Barterers And Their Wives * Goodbye Holly * Let Go Of You Girl * Heartbreaker * Sing Little Bird Sing * Nice To See You * My Friend Today * Shadows Breaking Over My Head * I Can Fly * Love Songs In The Night * Lazy Day * Bryant Hotel * Two By Tow * Evening Gown * I Haven’t Got The Nerve * There’s Gonna Be A Storm * Desiree * Walk Away Renee * Encore: City Life

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James is on His Game

Thursday, April 26th, 2012 by The Professor

James McCartney premiers with precision in Manhattan

by Radio RockonTour host Timothy Tilghman

Profiled as making his New York City club date debut by having his new double album held up, “James McCartney”, was the immediate introduction by Blake Morgan, CEO of Engine Company Records. James McCartney youngest child and only son of Sir James Paul McCartney, premiered just 30 minutes behind schedule with his energized touring band on the American East Coast.

Sean Lennon, James McCartney, and Dhani Harrison were all born within three years of each other between 1975 and 1978, being the last of the Beatles bambinos. Julian Lennon was the first Beatles offspring to launch a recording career. Zak Starkey followed shortly thereafter and has established himself as the permanent bombastic replacement touring drummer for The Who.

Now after releasing two cyber CD EPs in August 2010 Available Light and September 2011 Close At Hand, James McCartney has finally set foot firmly across the Atlantic pond to perform live before American audiences. McCartney graciously appeared free of charge before an eagerly packed house on the intimate stage of the Rockwood Music Hall in the Big Apple on Wednesday, February 1, 2012.

McCartney simply walked out onto Stage 2, plugged in, and ignited his performance supported by a tight group of touring musicians. McCartney was adorned with pendants as well as buttons and pins on his jacket. Considering who his Pop is in the annals of the contemporary music industry, James exhibited a serene confidence in his stage persona.

It’s always an interesting experience to hear studio material live in concert for the first time. Will you like what you hear? Does the live sound transcend the recording? It was no surprise whatsoever that McCartney’s solid compositions sounded even stronger within a live environment. But please don’t critique his organic music to that of Father Paul’s career that would be silly beyond compare.

James exercised a wise decision in suspending his emergence as a musician until after he was well into his 30’s. Having maturity on your side helps to guide your path and take better choices. His grandfather Jim McCartney enjoyed playing trumpet in his own amateur Liverpool group The Jim Mac Jazz Band in the 1920s so music is more than an avocation in the limbs of the McCartney family tree.

“Oh, thank you. Thank you, New York. You are welcome. I’m James McCartney”, was all it took to set off unrelenting audience applause. An extra special treat for the crampt NYC crowd was that McCartney included in his performance a handful of the bonus tracks in his setlist from his new double disc.

Whether singing, jamming on acoustic or electric guitar and playing keyboards, McCartney’s talents for vocals, composition and performance were securely evident by the ease with which he handled himself before an up-close audience. Jimmy Boy certainly has a promising career ahead; you can count on that.

James Paul McCartney Rockwood Music Hall, New York, NY, February 1, 2012 setlist: New York Times * I Only Want To Be Alone * My Friend * The Sound Of My Voice * Fallen Angel * Spirit Guides * Wings Of A Lightest Weight * Moonstar * Old Man * Angel * Mix

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A Saint Patty’s Musical Wish: The Irish Rovers Live

Friday, April 6th, 2012 by The Professor

The Irish Rovers share their charm to entertain loyal fans

by Radio RockonTour host Timothy Tilghman

2012 is being touted as signifying the numeral 50. There’s quite a collection of musicians celebrating their Silver Anniversary as musicians on stage. The Beach Boys, The Moody Blues, Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Pete Best, The Quarrymen, Status Quo, Roger Daltrey, Bob Dylan, Eric Burdon, Van Morrison, and Phil Lesh are all ready to hit the road to entertain their individual fan constituencies.

Rumors are rife that The Who anticipate launching another tour performing their 1973 mod-rock opus Quadrophenia later in the year. Still British contemporaries like Ray Davies, Jack Bruce, and The Yardbirds are presently in between touring engagements. July 2012 marks the 50th anniversary of England’s enduring export: The Rolling Stones. The word is that the classic rock icons will tour anew in 2013 now.

The Irish Rovers formed initially in 1963, but 2012 is curiously identified as their 47th Anniversary year. Two original members remain, George Millar on acoustic guitar and Wilcil McDowell on accordion. Bassist Ian Millar is the son of retired founding member Joe Millar. Sean O’Driscoll plays banjo and mandolin, and Fred Graham plays bodhran and drums. John Reynolds was absent from the stage lineup at the Barns of Wolf Trap for this date.

Appearing in Vienna, Virginia, on Wednesday, March 14, 2012, The Irish Rovers performance perfectly prefaced the impending Saint Patrick’s Day holiday on the immediate weekend. The band was promoting their recently released album Drunken Sailor. They delivered a total of seven salty songs on stage from their new disc.

The in-between-song banter and spirited interaction among the musicians was highlighted by a series of amusing exchanges and shared roadweary tales from their global touring experiences. Although the group attracts an exceedingly elderly audience, the rousing ethnic instrumental reels of The Irish Rovers engage the energy of the spectators who clap in time to the jaunty jigs.

In recognition of the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the R.M.S. Titanic which struck an iceberg on April 14, 1912, George Millar composed a moving memorial to the Irish shipbuilders in Belfast who constructed the pride of the White Star Line and the 1507 souls who lost their lives a century ago within the waves of the chilling Atlantic waters.

The Canadian gents dusted off three tunes from their 1967 record including the title track “The Unicorn”, which was an uncommon hit for a folk song all those years ago. The biggest surprise of the evening was a cover of “Lily The Pink” taken to Number One in England by The Scaffold with Mike McGear in 1968.

With the modern miracle of advances in medicine, people leading health conscious lives, and the physical stamina to perform live, it’s a true blessing that seasoned musicians who continue to age also continue to tour. Every band in this demography has either lost members to retirement or death sadly. You are as young as you feel and good vibrations will surely keep us all young for many years to come!

The Irish Rovers, Barns of Wolf Trap, Vienna, VA, March 14, 2012 setlist: Irish Rover * Boys Of Belfast * Ireland Boys Hurray * The Gracehill Fair * Dan The Cobbler > I Will If I Can * Brady Of Strabaney * Whistling Gypsy * Lewis Bridal Song * Sweet Anne * Willie Hunter > Dennis Murphy * The Titanic * Lily The Pink * intermission * The Orange And The Green * Dear Ould Ireland * When The Wife Is Mad * The Girls Of Derry * Black Velvet Band * Shamrock Shore * The Clare Hornpipe > Reconciliation * Whores And Hounds * The Unicorn * Dark Island > The Mason’s Apron * The Dublin Pub Crawl * Encore: The Drunken Sailor

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Making Mersey Beat Waves: The Mahoney Brothers Live

Monday, April 2nd, 2012 by The Professor

The Mahoney Brothers: Mach Shau in make up

by Radio RockonTour host Timothy Tilghman

Time and time again, it’s been said that imitation is the best form of flattery. Although Beatles tribute bands are all too common today, one Fab act crests above the many carbon copycats performing on the touring circuit. The Mahoney Brothers have a musical pedigree that stretches all the back to the original Beatlemania stage production from the late 1970s.

The Mahoney Brothers’ Long Live The Beatles presentation comprises three individual sets that refashion separate creative periods within the Beatles recording career. The first musical phase has the group dressed as 1965 Mop Tops. The next transition represents their Flower Power psychedelic uniforms from 1967’s Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. And finally, the lads tart themselves up resembling the 1969 Abbey Road album cover attire.

Brian Mahoney plays both electric & acoustic guitar and keyboards as Smart Beatle John Lennon. Tim Mahoney plays Hofner bass guitar as Cute Beatle Paul McCartney. Mike Mahoney plays the drums as Funny Beatle Ringo Starr. Joining the Mahoney trio to complete this PreFab Four unit is Jay Swanson on lead guitar as Quiet Beatle George Harrison. All four members sing lead and harmony vocals in addition to playing additional instruments during the course of their typecast program.

Highlights from the first set included “I’ll Cry instead”, “I’m Happy Just To Dance With You”, and “The Night Before”. The classic psychedelic numbers from 1967 and the 1968 rockers were high points from the second set. The biggest and best surprises of the concert were a cover of Ringo Starr’s 1971 hit single “It Don’t Come Easy” and the poignant 1995 Fab reunion single “Free As A Bird”. The show closed with the signature Beatlemania anthem “I Saw Her Standing There” that had everybody bopping to the beat.

The Mahoney Brothers appeared on a brisk Saturday evening igniting the intimate stage at the Recher Theatre in Towson, Maryland. Mersey Beat fans of all ages and backgrounds turned out to experience a melodic Fab recreation complete with choice brotherly harmonizing. Addressing the audience in cheeky Liverpudlian accents, the Mahoney Brothers even kinda look like their individual Beatle personas.

Beatles music has proven to be timeless with new generations of fans being born every year all across the globe. The outstanding compositions of John, Paul, George and Ringo reverberate unrelenting with a universal appeal promoted by a contagious catalogue of exemplary material that has generated an enduring legacy unchallenged by almost all of their British Invasion contemporaries.

The Mahoney Brothers, Recher Theatre, Towson, Maryland, March 31, 2012 setlist: She Loves You * Please Please Me * All My Loving * Roll Over Beethoven * If I Fell * Can’t Buy Me Love * I Should Have Known Better * Yellow Submarine * HELP! * I’ll Cry Instead * I’m Happy Just To Dance With You * The Night Before * Twist And Shout * intermission * Drive My Car * Day Tripper * If I Need Someone * Magical Mystery Tour * Strawberry Fields Forever * Penny Lane * With A Little Help from My Fiends * Fool On The Hill * A Day In The Life * Back In The USSR * Birthday * Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band Reprise * intermission * Blackbird * Two Of Us * Something * It Don’t Come Easy * Free As A Bird * Get Back * Come Together * Hey Jude * Revolution * The End * Dizzy Miss Lizzie * I Saw Her Standing There

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Three Monkees in a Corral

Sunday, June 26th, 2011 by The Professor

Dolenz, Tork & Jones 45th Anniversary Reunion Tour is a stunning stage rebirth

by Radio RockonTour host Timothy Tilghman

The Monkees as a faux musical unit were initially a television creation for a Saturday morning viewing audience, singing hits crafted by top pop composers. As their popularity skyrocketed, the individual Monkees endeavored to record their own original music as a band. Whether you were a Monkees fan or not, one must respect the fact that they strove to establish a genuine musical identity for themselves.

The Monkees first regrouped as a trio sans Michael Nesmith for their 20th Anniversary and conducted a successful 1986 reunion tour that stretched from Summer into Fall. To commemorate their 30th Anniversary, Nesmith rejoined the fold and produced their only studio reunion album Justus in 1996. The full quartet toured England together in Winter 1997. The trio last toured for their 35th Anniversary in Spring 2001.

The terrific trio are now back on the road to mark their 45th Anniversary and simply put – Wow! The Monkees delivered an incredible performance at Stage AE in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on Wednesday, June 22, 2011. The intimate outdoor venue is nestled in between the playing fields of two major sport stadiums just along the riverbank. The cool evening weather was picture perfect to enjoy an extended live repertoire of classic Monkees material.

Credit for The Monkees reunion rebirth rests with their Tour Director who rearranged their live stage production to rock with an audible edge rather than rehash their sound as saccharine pop confectionery served up for the masses. This enhanced Monkees stage production was embellished by an eight member musical touring entourage that enriched the individual performances.

The sheer number of numbers the trio played was impressive itself. Dolenz, Jones and Tork each took turns alone and together singing their signature hits as well as mixing choice album tracks with several unexpected rare tracks for added measure. A diehardcore Monkees fan could not have asked for more than what the band knocked out under a blanket of sparkling stars in Pittsburgh.

Bassist Peter Tork participated in an expanded musical role on this overwhelmingly enjoyable tour. Peter sang lead vocals on a total of six songs from an exciting setlist of 37 titles. A good deal of unanticipated album tracks were pleasantly dusted off for inclusion and welcomed by an appreciative audience. The individual musicianship of The Monkees was demonstrated throughout the evening by the differing instruments each played on stage.

A magnificent montage of Monkees excerpts spliced from the television series accompanied the stage performances as background visuals. Dolenz, Jones and Tork each shared comments with the Pittsburgh natives recalling their experiences as a Monkee. Micky mentioned his 1955 appearance with an elephant at nearby Kennywood Park. Their humorous stage banter was an amusing and popular means of interacting with their loyal fans.

Without question, The Monkees reunion romp has to be one of the best tours going during the Summer of 2011. The gents were entirely entertaining and gave the crowd beyond what they bargained for as an overall presentation. Davy, Micky & Peter are solid entertainers and together, they prove themselves to be a powerful team. Hey! Hey! They are The Monkees.

The Monkees Stage AE, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, June 22, 2011 setlist: Here They Come Again [ensemble intro] * I’m A Believer * Mary, Mary * Look Out (Here Comes Tomorrow) * The Girl I Knew Somewhere * When Loves Comes Knocking At Your Door * Randy Scouse Git * Valleri * Papa Jean’s Blues * Saturday’s Child * I Wanna Be Free * That Was Then, This Is Now * I Don’t Think You Know Me At All * All Of Your Toys * Hangin’ Round * She Hangs Out * Sometime In The Morning * Someday Man * Can You Dig It * As We Go Along * Didn’t I * Porpoise Song (Theme from Head) * When I Grow Up To Be A Man * For Pete’s Sake * Cuddly Toy * Words * She * Shades Of Gray * Goin’ Down * It’s Nice To Be With You * Auntie Grezelda * Last Train To Clarksville * A Little Bit Me, A Little Bit You * (I’m Not Your) Steppin’ Stone * Daydream Believer * Encore: Listen To The Band * Pleasant Valley Sunday * I’m A Believer

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