'Blue,' the Jan. 2-4 tribute to Joni Mitchell at the Kravis Center's Rinker Playhouse in West Palm Beach, turned into more than just a nod to Joni's fourth album from 1971. For the show's first hour, singer/songwriters Bob Stillman, Leslie Ellis and Jo Williamson and vocalist Connie James interpreted the often dark themes of 'Blue,' from "Little Green" (about the daughter Mitchell gave up for adoption) to the title track, supposedly a goodbye composition to former beau James Taylor.
Stillman provided the instrumental glue on dulcimer, guitar, piano and harmonica, and even showcased different technological eras by tuning his ancient dulcimer with a new iPhone. Ellis provided perhaps the most Joni-like presence with her folkish voice and rhythm guitar, while Williamson (who also played guitar) showed the most range with her articulate, classically-enhanced voice. Yet it was James who went the deepest blue, highlighting the concert's opening stanza with her gospel-influenced delivery of the gorgeous "River."
Afterward, the quartet's combined harmonies were showcased on several of Mitchell's greatest hits, from the infectious "Big Yellow Taxi" to the anthemic "Woodstock." Mitchell's compositions always provide challenges, but this quartet (particularly Stillman) handled her unorthodox song structures and chords with strong musicality, and all four proved extremely versatile as both lead singers and accompanists. Why not pay tribute to one of the 20th Century's greatest musical artists while she's still around to enjoy the accolades? -- Bill Meredith
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I had three reactions to this show (a show with which I was completely prepared to be disappointed):
ReplyDelete1. the musicians were exceptional and authentically captured the power of Joni's lyrics
2. this music was, and remains, a really important part of my life
3. that period of time was an absolutely magical time for me - oh, I know there was the usual dose of heart break and confusion, but hey, it was wonderful.
Nice post, Bill