Back last November I had the extreme pleasure of seeing Nils Lofgren in concert for the first time. It was an interesting and intimate affair at the Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale, AZ. CLICK HERE to read my review of the concert.
I described his work that night as "true genius." When I say true genius, I mean something that alters the way you look at things, appreciate life and especially the talents of others.... what a human being is capable of.
From Nils Lofgren, this true genius came in the form of music, live music. Well, when I heard he was coming back this year I bought my tickets the first day and I am happy that I did. Last year Nils choreographed a show of contrasts, a mixture of intensities and an interplay between soft harmonic acoustic guitar work and a firestorm of electric fury. The entire show was pure, authentic, flawless entertainment. I remember, throughout the show, I found myself with a constant smile on my face, the kind that hurts because it last so long.
Well, this year Nils changed things up but not to far. I again found myself with that smile on my face. He still shared the stage with the incredibly talented Greg Varlotta and he still played many of his classic songs starting off with “Too Many Miles" on the Harp and electric guitar. Then he put the electric away and melted into his acoustic set which included many of my favorites: "Rusty Gun," "Goin Back, "I Came to Dance," and "Keith Don't Go." "Shine Silently," "New Holes in Old Shoes," "Black Books," "Girl In Motion" and "You."
In it's own way, this mostly acoustic concert was as good as last year's. It's like listening to your best friend play for you in your living room.
An extremely talented best friend.
Nils Lofgren is a Baby Boomer, just like us, and it’s unfortunate that he has been overlooked for the talent and creativity he has brought to the music of our generation.
Sure, he rocked us down to our souls with Bruce Springsteen, but it is in his solo work that you find the most incredible songwriter, vocalist, guitarist and musical artist.
Even at the age of 64, you could tell that this was the same kid that, on his 19th birthday, opened up for Jimi Hendrix in concert. He has been on the road over 45 years. You would never guess. There's no ego in Nils. There's also no arrogance you would expect from someone who has performed in front of millions of fans. There no pretentiousness and no masquerade. There's just a guy who knows how to play the hell out of a guitar and enjoys every minute of it.
In an interview a few years back he stated: "I've just always done what I wanted." Thank Goodness for that !!
I hope next year he wants to hit the road again with a full band and strap on his Fender Strats. I, for one, would really like to feel the electric intensity and fire he can generate one more time.
Interestingly enough, after this concert I had the chance to meet Nils and chat. He has a huge presence despite his diminutive size. Even without a guitar in his hands you know this man loves music and he understands it in a way that few too performers do.
During our conversation I told him that I wished I understood music the way he did.
He looked right at me and said: "If you love the music then you understand it."