I attended the New Haven concert with friends. The playset was similar to the other concerts. It did take Gord a few songs to get warmed up, but he was outstanding for most of the night. Yes, adjustments have been made for his voice but so what? It is obvious that he still loves being on stage. He was relaxed and teased the crowd with comments. My favorite was when he said "The Shubert Theater is very famous ... or so we were told." That got a good laugh!
His voice is not as rich as it once was, but neither is mine when I sing along to the CD's on a long car trip. What has not changed is the magic of his lyrics. I was glad he played many of his newer songs, most of which were unfamilar to many in the audience, who seemed familiar with only his work through the Summertime Dream album. Gord made light of this a couple of times. Gord is truly a painter passing through time.
It was wonderful to see younger people in the crowd, and not just people of my generation. We had two kids next to us with crazy colored hair that seemed to have a great time.
I did not attend expecting to hear the magnificent voice that I so enjoyed at Tanglewood in the mid 70's. I did not go to be entertained by the band. I went to see a man whose poetry speakes so often to the life I have lived. I went to see the man who takes my mind to beautiful places I have never seen. In all respects I attended an event that met every expectation. My only regret is that I cannot go again this year.
When the sea runs high,
Th' sea runs wild and I'm unsteady,
And I think of you,
In the warmth of your home and family.
When love is true,
There is no truer occupation.
And may this gale
Blow us to the ones we love.
That's what I went for. Open your ears and your heart my friend and you may find the same.
Buddy
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