David Crosby performed his acoustic set with energy and enthusiasm.
Thalia Hall Chicago
Playing a single sold out night, David Crosby was inspired as he has ever been in his recent career. He attributed this to prolifically writing new songs, something uncommon for artists in their twilight years.
Excited about his pending October release Lighthouse, he announced that he is also releasing a second CD in early 2017 titled Home Free, admitting to shamelessly plugging pre-sales from the stage, he was obviously proud of this recent serge of songwriting creativity.
With Crosby's son, James Raymond Crosby accompanying on piano, keyboards and backing vocals, the two produced a full harmonized sound. But most impressive, at 75 years old, Crosby's voice was amazingly strong and enduring for the two hour-plus concert.
Part of the evening's charm was Crosby's stories, insights and overall comfort with the audience while on stage. Beyond a warm personality, his temperament and age demonstrated wisdom and vulnerability as he introduced songs with the stories that defined him. One such story he spoke of what it was like being in love with Joni Mitchell as he went into playing her song "For Free". Or admitting when he didn't have an answer for the hard questions his young children would ask, he would turn to writing songs.
This concert was not a parade of classic radio hits by a pop culture icon, but rather an intimate evening with a singer-songwriter. Crosby was delighted to play songs as they were written, and in his words, not how a lead guitarist (to remain unnamed) recorded it.
Well received by the most loyal of fans, some might have left disappointed having not heard the mega hits. However, as one of rock's royalty, it is a cherished experience to hear his musical craftsmanship in this intimate and non-compromised fashion. The audience was witness to the more private side of an icon that first touched our lives over 50 years ago.
Set List:
Tracks in the Dust
The Lee Shore
Naked in the Rain
For Free
Dream for Him
Triad
In My Dreams
Delta
Rusty and Blue
Carry Me
Homeward Through the Haze
What Are Their Names
What Makes It So
Somebody Home
Laughing
Déjà Vu
Guinnevere
Cowboy Movie