This past Wednesday night, we went to a free concert called “Acoustic Christmas”. Well, it was free if you donated a toy for homeless kids. Not a problem! They deserve holidays gifts just like everyone else. It’s not their fault they are homeless.
First, thanks to local radio station 100.5 The Zone for putting this on and “giving away” tickets. Yay! One beef, though. Each artist only played about an hour, which I’m sure is shorter then either of their normal sets. Ingrid, in fact, mentioned it. She asked what time it was and someone yelled “It doesn’t matter”. Then she explained they only allowed her a set amount of time. Why is this, promoters? Both artists got a standing ovation, yet no encores and only short sets allowed?
OK, enough. It was still a very enjoyable show. Both artists were acoustic (guitar and piano) and both had a second person accompanying them. Ingrid Michaelson (learn more, web site) opened the show even though much of the crowd was waiting for David. But I’m sure she won over most of the audience with her charm and wit, not to mention her ultra-catchy songs. She performed a bunch of songs from her fine new album “Everybody”, as well a couple from her previous albums. She threw in a cover or two also. Her between song patter was funny and fetching. If you don’t own “Everybody” and “Girls And Boys” then go buy them now. I’ll wait.
As for David Gray (learn more, web site), well, the crowd loved him. I was less impressed. He has a decent voice and his hit “Babylon” from years ago was a highlight. Also powerful was the last song he did, I don’t know the title. But many of the songs had a sameness to them and some were close to bland. Not bad, just not unique or, well, very interesting. His mannered stage demeanor (little interaction with the audience) was a far cry from Ingrid’s talking to us like we were her friends. And Ingrid signed autographs and talked and posed for pictures with people, while David was only seen onstage during his set. But David was a bit hit with the crowd and he was worth staying for. Too bad for him that Ingrid was so much better and more interesting!
But really, I enjoyed the show and was obviously wanting more. There are a couple more crappy cell phone pictures below too. If you went to the show, wanted to go, or just have an opinion, you can leave me a comment down below.
