Great interaction with the audience - wonderful music. Great place to see a show!
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About
The year 2013 was a back-to-basics year for John Ondrasik, better known by his stage name, Five for Fighting, as he reunited with longtime producer Gregg Wattenberg and released "Bookmarks," his first album in four years. The lead single, "What If," marked a return to the formula that made earlier hits, "Superman" and "100 Years," so memorable. Never reliant on studio trickery, Five for Fighting in concert are just as moving, with an experienced backing band and Ondrasik at the piano, singing in his trademark falsetto. Ticket buyers looking for a little loudness in their rock won't be disappointed, either, as Five for Fighting supply the occasional rock anthem in their repertoire as well. Ultimately, whether he's playing loud or soft, Ondrasik's shows are about intimacy and connecting with each individual. In that sense, they're a natural extension of "Bookmarks," connecting with listeners on his long-explored themes of love and reflection.
Ondrasik started Five for Fighting after trying opera singing in college and graduating with a degree in applied science and mathematics. Wisely choosing the singer/songwriter route, he released his debut album, "Message for Albert," in 1997 and followed up with the album that established him as a force in the industry, 2000's "America Town" and what became a sort of anthem in the wake of 9/11 -- "Superman (It's Not Easy)." He confirmed that success three years later with "The Battle of Everything" and the chart-topping single, "100 Years." Since then, philanthropy has been an increasing part of his activities, most notably with his "CD for the Troops" project, and he's also dabbled in sports writing and public speaking. Though he's scaled back his touring in recent years, music is still his first love, and as the lyrical spectrum of "Bookmarks" shows, the yearning for connection is still there.
Rating: 5 out of 5by Anonymous on 11/8/09Aladdin Theater - Portland Rating: 5 out of 5 singer without a voice
by klps on 11/8/09Aladdin Theater - PortlandI felt really bad for John as he was recovering from laryngitis and that could not have been very enjoyable experience for him. He sounded great though-was a dream come true to see him in concert. He is so good-better that his Cd's and of course his Cd's are great! I hadn't even heard of Angel Taylor so that was nice to be introduced to a new voice for me. She was great too. I had also not been to the Aladdin theater so that was a gas. Really liked the atmosphere and people I had interaction with both concert attendees and personnel working there. was a night to remember for a long time.
Rating: 5 out of 5 Five for Fighting was very enjoyable
by Elow on 11/8/09Aladdin Theater - PortlandOverall just a very fun and relaxing experience. He has alot of meaningful lyrics that relate t stories he told about his life which were fun to hear. I'd recommend it, for sure!
Rating: 5 out of 5by Anonymous on 11/8/09Aladdin Theater - Portland Once again great show. Great songs, crowd loves him, he loves the crowd and is great to listen to
Rating: 5 out of 5 John Ondrasik was AWESOME!
by Zombcat on 11/7/09Aladdin Theater - PortlandLet's put it this way...I've never been to a bad Five For Fighting show. Even this evening at Portland's Aladdin Theater, things could have gone awry. John was having issues with his voice because of laryngitis. But, he was a trouper and gave it his best shot. He may not have hit his usual high notes at all times...but he did for Superman! And, although his voice wasn't 100%, it was still just as sweet! John is always great with his stories, and tonight was no different. I've heard the same stories dozens of times, but they just keep getting better and better! John had the audience in stitches, myself included! Once you go to a Five For Fighting show, it will never be your last...you'll want to see John again and again and again! John has a LOT of loyal fans, for good reason! If you've never seen John Ondrasik perform live, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND giving him a shot. It will be a concert you'll never forget!
Rating: 4 out of 5by Anonymous on 11/7/09Aladdin Theater - Portland John Ondrasik is a very charismatic performer. He had the audience in the palm of his hand last evening - and managed amazingly well, despite laryngitis. Many musicians would have cancelled or postponed. Angel Taylor has a great voice and a very charming personality. This is a great opportunity for her. Thank you for a most enjoyable evening. I'll be there next time you're in Portland.
Rating: 4 out of 5 Five for fighting was great
by Anonymous on 11/7/09Aladdin Theater - PortlandThis was my first time to this venue , very audience friendly , not a bad seat in the house, lets you get personable with the artist.
Rating: 5 out of 5 One For Five and Five For All
by 2lifexperience on 11/7/09Aladdin Theater - PortlandMy girlfriend and I flew in from Denver to see the show and tour some Pinot vinyards this weekend. When he started the concert and stated that he had been sick Monday and had to take steroids I was a bit worried that it was just bad timing and the show would suffer... Happy to say he still hit it out of the ballpark! Angel was a great pre-show as well. At only 21 years old she has a very bright future.
Rating: 5 out of 5 Fantastic!
by RickRam on 11/7/09Aladdin Theater - PortlandDespite having to cancel his show the night before due to laryngitis John put on a show we will never forget! if he didn't announce his health problems i don't think people would have known. Every song was a favorite - even the ones i hadn't heard yet.
Rating: 5 out of 5 Five For Fighting - Incredible
by Davekn61 on 11/7/09Aladdin Theater - PortlandEven with a tiny issue with his voice John Ondrasik didn't miss a beat or a note! He is funny, entertaining, simply an incredibly talented singer - song writer. The intimate setting of the Aladdin Theater was awesome and the acoustic performance was unforgetable.
Rating: 5 out of 5 Five for Fighting was better than expected
by Sammysul on 11/7/09Aladdin Theater - PortlandI truly loved the concert. John has great humor and is an amazing musician. Very entertaining. The Aladdin was the perfect venue for him.
Rating: 5 out of 5by Anonymous on 11/7/09Aladdin Theater - Portland Five For Fighting is probably the most underrated act out there. One of the best in the business, and a "regular guy!"