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| From | "Josh Chasin" <jchasin@nyc.rr.com> |
| Subject | Raspberries |
| Date | Mon, 25 Jul 2005 11:57:20 -0400 |
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Allow me to add my harmony vocals to the angelic choir singing the praises of the reunited Raspberries. I saw them last night at BB King's, a clip joint in midtown Manhattan. I stood in the back by the bar, which by any stretch was a great spot, because the room is small enough that the worst standing room is a great vantage point (note: I'm 6'4"; this may not be the case for you.)
The video montage opening the show really ignited the feeling of something akin to Beatlemania associated with those four wicked-skinny, long haired kids. Then their grandfathers took the stage (well, it looked like that after the film) and popped out for almost 2 hours. All the songs you'd want, as has been noted; the Who's "I Can't Explain;" and the 3 Beatle songs in the encore were "You're Gonna Lose That Girl" (I love that one); "Please Mister Postman" (Motown, but obviously owing to the Beatles version); and "Twist and Shout."
I had heard it was an 8-piece band but I only counted 3 additional musicians: the gut mostly playing guitar all the way left; the chick on vocals and occasional keyboard; and the keyboard player who sometimes played guitar. Did I just miss someone?
Eric Carmen was unbelievable, but my take was, this was a band comprised of a Systems Analyst, a Financial Planner, a Regional Sales Manager, and a rock star (Carmen.) There was a lot of talk about, "We weren't sure we could still play together..."
But I'm just making light. The show was a blast, and it isn't often you see vintage material like this-- first generation "power pop"-- played with such enthusiasm and capability. A splendid time was had by all.
The highlight for me, if I had to name one, was "Overnight Sensation," a truly thrilling song that they pulled off with ease, although if it was me, I'd have walked off to it pre-encore.
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