Elton's stop in Columbus OH showed him in fine form.... bringing an intense and passionate show for his mid Ohio fans.
Having attended shows in each US leg of the Big Picture tour, I was struck by how intense Elton's playing and passionate his vocals were. I think a great deal of that has to do with new drummer Jack Bruno, who just rocked with the up tempo numbers and added a new dimension to the band.
I am in agreement with previous reviews that Circle of Life was kind of a lack luster opening to the show. It paled compared to Funeral for a Friend, which opened the last leg of tour and Elton left off the playlist. But the band added new vigor to existing set numbers. Honky Cat featured a sizzling sax by John Jorgenson and impressive banjo solo by Davy Johnstone. Added to Elton's already impressive piano solo, the song soared. Levon's arrangement was different this time around; dominated first by Guy Babylon "syth-orchestration" and finished with a rock fury.... Very impressive.
The highlight of the evening came when Elton & band unveiled Capt Fantastic for the first time this tour. Having never heard it live, the uptempo rocking chorus added a new demension to the classic. A solo version of Your Song and Recover Your Soul added a poignant moment to the show. Lucy in the Sky was a treat. Having not heard it live for over 10 years, I had forgotten how great a cover it was. Jack Bruno's drums, John Mahon's percussion, and Guy Babylon's synthesizers gave the song a vibrant re-working. I'm glad Elton decided to leave in Great Balls of Fire for encore. Great Fun!
Some "newer" fans sitting next to me remarked that 'Elton shows that he absolutely loves what he is doing' The slow songs were passionatly played, musicianship outstanding, and rockers went through the roof. It's nice to witness other fans experience the type of performer we have come to expect from Elton.
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