Backed by a four-piece band, he opened big with "Hurdy Gurdy Man", complete with an accurate reproduction of the fuzz guitar solo performed on record by Jimmy Page. Next, the signature riff of "Barabajagal", originally performed on record by Jeff Beck. Peppering his song intros with recollections of hanging out and performing with various members of rock's royalty in the '60s and '70s, Donovan touched on most of his greatest hits. He prefaced some anecdotes with "commercial" and proceed to relate stories of chats with Jim Morrison and a Beatle or two, reminding his audience that more could be found in his autobiography. Introducing "Universal Soldier", he related how in six months time early in his career, he'd met the song's writer, Buffy Saint-Marie, who introduced him to Bob Dylan, who introduced him to the Beatles. His continued amazement at experiencing those times is a trait his fans love.

Delving into his beat(nik) beginnings Donavan and band stretched out with selections from his recent and under-rated album "Beat Cafe". On an extended "Wear Your Love Like Heaven", his band showed their individual chops-- but on other songs, their mechanical understanding of Mr. Leitch's songbook seemed obvious. On the few songs that Donovan played solo acoustic guitar, he easily conjured up the gentle intimacy and sincerity his audience had been waiting for.

After a brief intermission, the second set began with the addition of a small local string section. "Jennifer Juniper", "Lalena", and others were beautifully recreated in their original arrangements.

An artist with Donovan's chart success and iconic status could easily trot out the hits, go through the motions and coast. To see this icon in concert, one is struck by his honesty. He has remained consistent in his message, avoiding the self parody that curses many of his era. The Hurdy Gurdy Man is alive and well.

Top photo courtesy of Donovan; Side photo by Mike Colle

Write Comment
Name:	Guest
Title:
Comment:
Code:*

Powered by AkoComment 2.0!