Greenville SC
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Greenville SC |
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Date: March 27, 1999 JOHN PRINE WOWS 'EM IN THE
CAROLINAS! A very "up" John Prine stirred the musical pot in the city of Greenville. Saturday nights may never be the same again in this South Carolina town. John was in great spirits, having just opened successfully his first tour in sixteen months only two nights ago, in Bristol, Tennessee. Set in one of the more modern, clean, and attractive theaters that John has played in recent memory, the Peace Center proved to be an excellent springboard for the continuing resurrection of this singer. Backed by his hard-working bassist David Jacques, and the mellow Jason Wilber on both guitar and mandolin, John drew applause in massive amounts with each song he chose. A surprising mandolin introduction by Jason for "Angel From Montgomery" drew applause once the crowd recognized the song. John played "Dear Abby" for a fan he met in his hotel lobby after his band went on a break. For the second show in a row he included "A Good Time," a pleasant inclusion for those who enjoy his older music. Pulling a surprise out of left field, John played an old A.P. Carter song, "Bear Creek Blues'" which he played as pure rock and which fit well into the show. It was a good change of pace and drew big applause from a cheering audience. The "Happy Enchillada Song" (That's The Way That The World Goes 'Round) also enjoyed another concert presentation, to the delight of the audience. "Lake Marie" never fails to arouse an audience, and the Greenville people were no different than any other audiences. John used this song to wind up his show, and performed two encore songs, "Hello In There," and, with the help of opening act RB Morris, finished with an audience cheering his rendition of "Paradise." Once again, as always, John's anecdotes were met with laughter and applause. John could probably put on a concert with no music, just stories, and pull it off! This is John's strength, his uniqueness, his "hook." He is good at it, and keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. He has told his "guitar story" twice now, and it is most amusing. Listen for it at your next Prine concert! John announced his recent medical problems at Greenville, and received the same appreciative hand-clapping that he got at Bristol. Nearly everyone has been affected in their own family by the ravages of cancer. They appreciate and are thankful that John appears to have beat this malady. A few notes about his voice. John has a distinctive sound. Once heard, there can never be a doubt in the listener's mind as to who is singing. You should all be pleased to know that John sounds just like John! His voice may break on some high notes....but it always has! He is a trouper, and he continues on even when he appears to be hurting just a bit. John persists. Souvenir sales at the first two concerts appeared brisk, with the single sales clerk kept busy before and after the show. Memories were made by John, and bought later by the fans. The ratings at the top of this year's reviews will result from an average of several factors: these include Lighting, Audio, Audience, Visibility, Comfort, and Show Quality. John basically is responsible for the last, and often can get the "audience" score higher. The other factors will depend upon the facility. SET LIST 1. BLOW UP YOUR TV (SPANISH PIPEDREAM) --band breaks-- 9. DEAR ABBY --band returned to finish 'Sam Stone'-- 14. THAT'S THE WAY THAT THE WORLD GOES 'ROUND |
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