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Concert Mon Jun 16 2014
Photos/Review: Richard Thompson @ Pritzker Pavilion 6-16-14
Richard Thompson, lead singer of the legendary folk band The Fairport Convention, is a man whose presence on stage carries much weight. His adeptness at guitar playing as well as his aptitude as a lyricist are deservedly renown but one thing some who haven't seen him live may not realize is how charming he is. He's also rather funny, joking that he found the bassist,Taras Prodaniuk, and drummer, Michael Jerome, of his electric trio out in the alley and supposing Chicagoans might have lake chanties instead of sea chanties.
Thompson has made huge contributions to folk music history and his own solo opening set though a bit short at 30 minutes also featured Fairport Convention songs. In contrast, his second more rock oriented set as a trio was plugged in and the electric quality was interesting and perhaps more engaging to a larger crowd spread out on the lawn especially. Fans were treated to a much longer whopping 90 minute set in this style to ensure they left satisfied.
Either way, Thompson appeared to handle his own complex guitar melodies with ease and still demonstrated a great vocal range as well. It was a pleasure for both devoted fans and casual listeners to hear him and the trio play. It's not just talent in terms of the dexterity but the distinctiveness of the playing and the man as a whole that is the real treat.
This event was made possible as part of Downtown Sound New Music Mondays!
