1 Topic by Rocket (edited by Rocket 2009-09-01 12:49:45)

  • Rocket
  • Rocket
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  • Registered: 2006-04-26
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Topic: Galaxy Theater Santa Ana Feb. 1

An out of this world night for sure. It was destined to be so when I am just having a conversation with the only other severely early bird, Frank, a local bass player, when after his sound check, Robben Ford appeared out of nowhere and we had a pleasant little meet & greet, unexpectedly! Robben is very self-effacing and humble-hmmm sound familiar? Then Joe was seen by me (although I wasn't seen by Joe yet) getting photographed with his acoustic for promo shots.  Carmine was caught wandering about quickly as is his style and we had a quick hello.  He was off to do the sound check, which was superb, even when I went back outside it was great sounding.
I met with the new recruit for the Street Team San Diego, Josh, along with his Mom, Laura.  A very knowledgeable and quite involved fellow when it came to music listening, gear, & playing. The place was getting filled up quicker than a motorcycle gas tank, which was definitely not being handled with the greatest of ease by the staff.  Late arrivals from their siesta were Jaci & Ken plus Roy.  I tried to keep them out to no avail, just for fun.  Also met Susan from MoJoehio, and later her daughter she failed to keep protected from me, Dee.  Dee was ready to fight when I told her something as a joke.  She got a kick out of it when she got to the bottom of it.  Hi Dee Dee, love you! Jaci, Ken & Roy had dinner reservations but it appeared they would get the shaft as it was filled nearly to capacity by now.  But they got to a table, albeit with others & cramped.  Meanwhile, Josh was thrilled to the max when he finally got backstage to see Joe.  Then things took off for the night, never to slow down.  The local band, Sean Jones, not to be sneered at, were a very good sounding, great energy bunch.  Then Joe & Co. were up & at 'em!  The setlist:

Bridge To Better Days
Walk In My Shadows
So Many Roads
Mountain Time-Still long & entrancing, but cut a little short on the improvisation
Another Kind Of Love
Sloe Gin-Joe got damn frustrated when he tried singing "damn lonely" the first time and it was damn distorted.  Something similar had transpired the previous evening in San Juan Capistrano.  Regardless, the audience applauded very appreciatively
High Water Everywhere-Thunderously dynamic (thank you Bogie) and this one got the crowd very excited, and the applause was now registering on the "wildly appreciative" scale
Don't Burn Down That Bridge-To answer the curious questions, it is jazzed up now and Rickified. As punchy as the previous arrangement was, this one is profoudly musical and should be a delight to anyone as the lyrics are exactly the  same, have exactly the same impact, but just come in a less beaten over the head mode of delivery.
Woke Up Dreaming-pegged the "wildly aprreciative" scale meter needle in the red zone
Just Got Paid/Dazed & Confused-Had 'em screaming, moreso when Bogie had a wha...oops, solo
ENCORES
One Of These Days
Asking around For You
Ball Peen Hammer-A tour de Force from now on hopefully. An exclamation point on a great set where Joe had 'em in the palm of his hand. They were actually singing "I Can't Stand It" when you know many it was their first hearing of Joe. 

1,200 Out Of This World packed in tight and smiling heads a bouncing everywhere...

Bogie, Rick & Carmine-with Joe; 4 Guys pushing themselves to even BETTER performances (OK Joe & guys, reality, a few slips but You & Me were the ones who noticed, not the throng).  Just keeps getting better...

Look Out World!!!

Rock On & Keep the Faith,
Rocket

P.S.-Musicinmy soul, you wanna add the Robben Ford part of the evening?

"He still doesn't charge for mistakes! wink"
http://jbonamassa.com/tour-dates/
"Everybody wants ta get inta the act!"
“Now, this isn’t your ordinary party crowd, here.  I mean, there are professionals in here.”

2 Reply by Danny! (edited by Musicinmysoul 2008-02-03 19:05:56)

  • From: Sandy Eggo
  • Registered: 2007-04-29
  • Posts: 1,369

Re: Galaxy Theater Santa Ana Feb. 1

Well I don't have a set list (someone snagged it before I could...security guy was being an **** which didn't help, I quote: "...absolutely not...if I see you leaning to grab that set list I'll take it away from you.") but I'll throw out my take on Robben's half of the show. To be honest unless the crowd has very varying tastes in music, I couldn't see Robben's performance going horribly well. I thought the pairing was awkward, because how do you top a performance like Joe's Asking Around For You (shh!!!). Not to say that Robben didn't hold his own, but in my opinion had he pulled a full songs out of older albums (for example 1988-1995, Talk to Your Daughter, Robben Ford and the Blue Line, Mystic Mile, and Handful of Blues) instead of 90% Truth, the crowd would have been a little more receptive. It's not like people were completely oblivious of Robben, Peace on My Mind was a particularly powerful song, but again, it's two different crowds that Joe and Robben were playing to.

Robben seemed to be in a pretty good mood that night, he walked up with this stylish cream suit and red boots, and he was talking a bit between songs. In particular he introduced 2 tributes to B.B. King, which seemed to be a consistent theme throughout the night (what with Joe playing his Lucille). Within the first couple tunes the crowd enjoyed and extensive jam featuring Robben's bassist. I don't know have a name but man that boy could play! Robben's drummer was phenomenal, I don't know anything about him except that fact that he's played with Robben in years past. He was so in touch with the music, it was really something to watch him play.

One thing I've wanted to publicly address is my disappointment in Robben's tone. I suppose I'm used to listening to the albums I mentioned earlier, with these beautiful singing tones (in a song like Politician or Born Under A Bad Sign for example). But man, Robben's tone was just harsh to my ears, I can't think of any other way to describe it. My ears were occasionally given relief when Robben would switch to both the neck and bridge pickups. I don't feel that Robben needed to cut through to the extent that he did.

Over all a very enjoyable show. Excluding the fact that I was on my feet for a total of 8 and a half hours, I had a really great time. As I said before I was burned out by the time Robben took the stage, at that point I found it easier to close my eyes and concentrate on the music instead of my aching back and legs...

Oh if anyone has a set list to post I'm sure that would be appreciated. I'll never understand how you guys remember these extensive set lists without writing them down or simply getting a copy of it...

Oh and Rocket, I meant to ask, how did you go about meeting all these people? Just in general how did you get "in" if you know what I mean. For instance your friend getting back stage etc.

"Music is the only thing that you can share with a million million people and you don't lose, you gain. It helps you to get energy and to live long, because when your soul is very happy then you don't want to die." - Ali Akbar Khan

3 Reply by Rocket (edited by Rocket 2009-07-07 23:51:17)

  • Rocket
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Re: Galaxy Theater Santa Ana Feb. 1

Just join the Street Team & pitch in.  Meeting Joe is actually something just about anyone has a fair shot at, although he is not out and about as much as he used to be.  I kind of liked Robben's tone, although I guess I would like it more like you say also musicinmysoul...He just has this thing of playing the weirdest looking chords and his style can be so doggone unique I find it hard to find fault, especially since I "finally" got to see him perform.  Joe Bonamassa did not jam with him as many of us had severe hopings for...but I did see Joe peeking out of the rafters watching Robben for quite a while, which only fueled those hopes more...*sigh* Oh well. Robben had this cool way of dancing to his music as he performed.  The drummer, Gary Novak, was incredible although he had a few times his timing slipped.  But he really gets into the music!  The bassist, also incredible, is Larry Carlton's son Travis Carlton and he got down to say the very least!! I was glad he didn't go 90% Truth, being a longtime fan. New arrivals almost always want the new stuff...Security guys were JERKS, one almost got into it with me...I was almost tossed and I woulda took his butt with me.  But they couldn't squash the night's excitement one iota!!!

Rock On & Keep the Faith,
Rocket

Musicinmysoul wrote:

Well I don't have a set list (someone snagged it before I could...security guy was being an         which didn't help, I quote: "...absolutely not...if I see you leaning to grab that set list I'll take it away from you.") but I'll throw out my take on Robben's half of the show. To be honest unless the crowd has very varying tastes in music, I couldn't see Robben's performance going horribly well. I thought the pairing was awkward, because how do you top a performance like Joe's Asking Around For You (shh!!!). Not to say that Robben didn't hold his own, but in my opinion had he pulled a full songs out of older albums (for example 1988-1995, Talk to Your Daughter, Robben Ford and the Blue Line, Mystic Mile, and Handful of Blues) instead of 90% Truth, the crowd would have been a little more receptive. It's not like people were completely oblivious of Robben, Peace on My Mind was a particularly powerful song, but again, it's two different crowds that Joe and Robben were playing to.

Robben seemed to be in a pretty good mood that night, he walked up with this stylish cream suit and red boots, and he was talking a bit between songs. In particular he introduced 2 tributes to B.B. King, which seemed to be a consistent theme throughout the night (what with Joe playing his Lucille). Within the first couple tunes the crowd enjoyed and extensive jam featuring Robben's bassist. I don't know have a name but man that boy could play! Robben's drummer was phenomenal, I don't know anything about him except that fact that he's played with Robben in years past. He was so in touch with the music, it was really something to watch him play.

One thing I've wanted to publicly address is my disappointment in Robben's tone. I suppose I'm used to listening to the albums I mentioned earlier, with these beautiful singing tones (in a song like Politician or Born Under A Bad Sign for example). But man, Robben's tone was just harsh to my ears, I can't think of any other way to describe it. My ears were occasionally given relief when Robben would switch to both the neck and bridge pickups. I don't feel that Robben needed to cut through to the extent that he did.

Over all a very enjoyable show. Excluding the fact that I was on my feet for a total of 8 and a half hours, I had a really great time. As I said before I was burned out by the time Robben took the stage, at that point I found it easier to close my eyes and concentrate on the music instead of my aching back and legs...

Oh if anyone has a set list to post I'm sure that would be appreciated. I'll never understand how you guys remember these extensive set lists without writing them down or simply getting a copy of it...

Oh and Rocket, I meant to ask, how did you go about meeting all these people? Just in general how did you get "in" if you know what I mean. For instance your friend getting back stage etc.

"He still doesn't charge for mistakes! wink"
http://jbonamassa.com/tour-dates/
"Everybody wants ta get inta the act!"
“Now, this isn’t your ordinary party crowd, here.  I mean, there are professionals in here.”
  • From: Cleveland
  • Registered: 2007-05-08
  • Posts: 272

Re: Galaxy Theater Santa Ana Feb. 1

Thanks for posting Rocket.  I was in total recovery mode the next morning.  It was a pleasure to meet you, I'm sure Dee and I will run into you again!  She does have a mean right hook, so careful with the jokes..........:lol:
Musicinmysoul, sorry we didn't meet up.  Maybe at a show in the future.  It was so crowded, I'm still not sure how Rocket got around like he did!  Thanks for your post on Robben.

5 Reply by Danny! (edited by Musicinmysoul 2008-02-03 23:45:12)

  • From: Sandy Eggo
  • Registered: 2007-04-29
  • Posts: 1,369

Re: Galaxy Theater Santa Ana Feb. 1

Rocket wrote:

Just join the Street Team & pitch in.  Meeting Joe is actually something just about anyone has a fair shot at, although he is not out and about as much as he used to be.  I kind of liked Robben's tone, although I guess I would like it more like you say also musicinmysoul...He just has this thing of playing the weirdest looking chords and his style can be so doggone unique I find it hard to find fault, especially since I "finally" got to see him perform.  Joe Bonamassa did not jam with him as many of us had severe hopings for...but I did see Joe peeking out of the rafters watching Robben for quite a while, which only fueled those hopes more...*sigh* Oh well. Robben had this cool way of dancing to his music as he performed.  The drummer, Gary Novak, was incredible although he had a few times his timing slipped.  But he really gets into the music!  The bassist, also incredible, is Larry Carlton's son Travis Carlton and he got down to say the very      %  !! I was gla s he didn't go 90% Truth, being a longtime fan. New arrivals almost always want the new stuff...Security guys were JERKS, one almost got into it with me...I was almost tossed and I woulda took his butt with me.  But they couldn't squash teh night's excitement one iota!!!

Rock On & Keep the Faith,
Rocket

What is the Street Team? Joe seems like such a nice guy, I think his stage presence is evidence of that. I was under the impression that if you ask him about his Murphy's he'll talk your ear off : P. Haha yeah, I noticed Joe and some girl (girlfriend perhaps?) peaking out from over the stage on the right. Robben got down, it was fun to see him move like that, I just wish he had more stage presence, that would liven up his shows and probably his fan base! I noticed those time slips a couple times, but I don't care, it was so in the moment it was hard to be bugged about it. I remember in particular he started off Don't Deny Your Love a little fast. No kidding, Robben's got Larry Carlton's son on bass? That's pretty sweet I've gotta say...As far as I could tell Robben was doing mostly Truth tunes, but I may be wrong. I don't know his discography as well as Joe's, its quite a bit more extensive.

As far as the security thing, I can see how they're just doing their job but come on, lighten up. I saw the set list taped to the ground and I said "Oh a set list! I've got dibs!" and he throws out this stern "Absolutely not." Then one of the other security guys goes over, untapes the list, and gives it to some dude on the side of the stage.

I thought about a couple things on the way home from work tonight (while listening to Robben). According to my guitar teacher (an avid fan of Robben's), Robben either wasn't playing his usual Dumble, or he had the exterior redone. I don't know exactly how significant this is, but it might be something. I don't remember what the other thing was...but if I think of it I'll post it here.

starks5867 wrote:

Thanks for posting Rocket.  I was in total recovery mode the next morning.  It was a pleasure to meet you, I'm sure Dee and I will run into you again!  She does have a mean right hook, so careful with the jokes..........:lol:
Musicinmysoul, sorry we didn't meet up.  Maybe at a show in the future.  It was so crowded, I'm still not sure how Rocket got around like he did!  Thanks for your post on Robben.

I'll try and stay active on here so next local show we can all meet up. Time to go to Ticketmaster and sign up for email notification...I tell you, I want to get more active in the blues world outside of the internet.

"Music is the only thing that you can share with a million million people and you don't lose, you gain. It helps you to get energy and to live long, because when your soul is very happy then you don't want to die." - Ali Akbar Khan
  • jim m
  • jim m
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Re: Galaxy Theater Santa Ana Feb. 1

Music,

Rocket has been a long time follower of Mr. B. Joe never forgets his loyal fans.

As for the Street Team it is a somewhat loosley organized but very fanatical group of fans that help promote Joe. Whether specific shows or just spreading the word. We all keep in touch through the message board and e-mail notification. Click the tab marked Street Team and sign up.

Sorry you didn't get a chance to  chat with Joe. Glad you enjoyed the show. You saw why Joe is quickly becoming the next guitar giant. He can make even a seasoned pro like Robben regret having to follow him.

Keep in touch.

jim m aka route66blues

jim m's Website

  • From: Deep in the forest
  • Registered: 2007-02-11
  • Posts: 5,296

Re: Galaxy Theater Santa Ana Feb. 1

Glad you all had a Joe fix. Nice to hear of Music's Bonabaptism, nothing like it! Rocket, you deserved a great time after missing shows last year to care for your sister...Good Karma Professor!..     Cathy

  • Jaci
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Re: Galaxy Theater Santa Ana Feb. 1

Rocket - It was fantastic to finally meet you.  I agree the security and employees of the
Galaxy were jerks all around.  The place was a dump but the show was great - I enjoyed
Shawn Jones, of course Joe, and Robben also.  Watch for Roy's post - you will not believe
what happened to us after we left you outside the Galaxy - not good !
Jaci

Lose your dreams and you will lose your mind.  Mick Jagger
  • Jaci
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Re: Galaxy Theater Santa Ana Feb. 1

Couldn't agree more - we have a new friend - Rocket when I met you at the door and
said "What have you got against the GB Packers?" - I expected
a fight - instead you
smiled and said "I'm Rocket".  Really threw me for a loop!  What a way to meet !
Jaci

Lose your dreams and you will lose your mind.  Mick Jagger
  • susan
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Re: Galaxy Theater Santa Ana Feb. 1

Hey Rocket,
We almost got to meet you in Orlando, but I guess it was not to be.  Maybe this year, we'll cross paths at one of Joe's gigs.  Anyway, I'm so glad to hear about these shows.  These reviews make me really look forward to the next show I'll be going to.  Just a little over 3 months away.  I'm already counting the days.

Susan big_smile

"Listen to the melody cause my love is in there hiding"
  • From: Sandy Eggo
  • Registered: 2007-04-29
  • Posts: 1,369

Re: Galaxy Theater Santa Ana Feb. 1

Any idea if Joe will be back in this area on the other end of the tour? If so I'm looking forward to meeting some of you guys.

"Music is the only thing that you can share with a million million people and you don't lose, you gain. It helps you to get energy and to live long, because when your soul is very happy then you don't want to die." - Ali Akbar Khan