Experience Hendrix

Brenda and I went to an awesome concert on Friday night at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. Essentially, the 'Experience Hendrix' tour was a tribute tour to the music of Jimi Hendrix. And a fine tribute it was.

I'll say that the best tribute is done when those 'paying' tribute remain 100% faithful to their inspiration. In other words, they played ONLY Jimi Hendrix songs. As far as pure musicianship and talent, this is the best show I have ever attended. The stage saw more talent over the course of the 3:10 duration than it probably has in a long time.

What especially stood out to me was (duh!) the guitar talent showcased. Mato Nanji (if you are into pure rock n roll - blues style - Indigenous does not disappoint), Jonny Lang, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, and Buddy Guy were my favorites of the night.

Mato has some serious soul and depth that are difficult to describe (maybe it is because he's Native American), and he plays guitar like it is a part of him!

Jonny Lang is just impressive. He sings and plays ridiculously well! Oh yeah, it is also worth mentioning that this 27 year old has more stage presence than many who are 20, 30, or 40 years older than him (only Buddy Guy overshadowed).

When Kenny Wayne Shepherd played, everyone took notice. If guitar playing translated to power, KWS would be God! (Sorry Eric Clapton) KWS is simply unmatched in power, speed, intensity, and accuracy.

Buddy Guy. At 72 years old, this guy still rocks it right. Not to mention that he has what appears to be a telepathically empowered ability to orchestrate the playing of EVERYONE on stage with him! Despite all the accolades I could give to the other musicians of the night, I have to say Buddy Guy was the ultimate!

I would be remiss if I did not mention the drums of Chris Layton. Wow! So smooth, and tight, and full of punch! I don't normally take notice of the drums, but Chris' playing demanded attention. I have not heard a drummer support a band so well in a long, long time!

Finally, I have to say that ALL of the musicians on stage were great. I was impressed with the playing of Brad Whitford (Aerosmith). Seventy-six year old Hubert Sumlin was equally impressive in his own right. In addition to the aforementioned Chris Layton, the entire rhythm section was great.

Overall, this concert was a rare gem among so much 'ordinary-ness' in the music world. How anyone could find something wrong with this concert is beyond me. That said, some are so miserable that they can find something wrong with anything. As Brenda and I were waiting for the MAX, I overheard someone complain, "I think four guitarists playing Red House is overkill". Come on man, what did you expect?