Topic: Reviews of PBS aired Greek Theatre Shows

First and foremost spoiler alert if you haven't seen it aired on your local PBS you might want to wait and see it for yourself before reading here.

I'm going to start off with what I know will be unpopular, but we're all Joe's fans and always will be so I think we can take it. I was underwhelmed for sure and I find myself wondering if Joe's management is pushing him too hard to pump out work that's not quite ready. I realize PBS only shows part of the entire show, but the concert, while incredibly well set up with the whole big band/backup singers thing, kind of flat-lined for me after the first few songs. It's like it wasn't really Joe's style of playing, but it sure as heck wasn't any of the 'King's' styles either. It was just some odd 'in between'. I decided to just fast forward to the guitar solo's in each song and in almost every case I felt like I was listening to the same solo each time, and, although I haven't done it with my guitar yet, seemed like everything was in the same key as well (I'm sure it wasn't). Joe just doesn't do this style of thing.

I just felt there was no 'Joe' in the songs. No highs, no lows, soft, hard. It's not like he was trying to do carbon copies of the originals, but it just sounded incredibly repetitious to me. I have, and will. give it many more listens. But as it stands now I am left wondering if Joe needs a break to get some time to work out what he would like to play as a guitar solo on each cut. It would take considerably longer to get the show ready, but would absolutely be worth the wait in my opinion.

Re: Reviews of PBS aired Greek Theatre Shows

Can't see the PBS because I'm back in the UK. Having just watched 'Breaking up someones home' and I just loved it. I'm not a fan of the new amp lineup without the effects but I have to say he's just giving his all. When I originally saw Natasha's filming prior to the show I definitely preferred it to the red rocks show. Just my opinion . I don't think Joe is being pushed by anyone really. He is his own man, but I think you may need to get your helmet ready... big_smile

Come on the Blades (sorry Idolbone just had to borrow your line)

Re: Reviews of PBS aired Greek Theatre Shows

Different shows are going to appeal to different people. To be honest, I didn't like the Muddy Wolf show at all, but a lot of people thought it was great.  We can all be big fans of Joe and his music, but not care for every single thing he does.  Haven't seen the Greek Theatre show yet, but I'll still definitely check it out.

Re: Reviews of PBS aired Greek Theatre Shows

NickelWound wrote:

First and foremost spoiler alert if you haven't seen it aired on your local PBS you might want to wait and see it for yourself before reading here.

I'm going to start off with what I know will be unpopular, but we're all Joe's fans and always will be so I think we can take it. I was underwhelmed for sure and I find myself wondering if Joe's management is pushing him too hard to pump out work that's not quite ready. I realize PBS only shows part of the entire show, but the concert, while incredibly well set up with the whole big band/backup singers thing, kind of flat-lined for me after the first few songs. It's like it wasn't really Joe's style of playing, but it sure as heck wasn't any of the 'King's' styles either. It was just some odd 'in between'. I decided to just fast forward to the guitar solo's in each song and in almost every case I felt like I was listening to the same solo each time, and, although I haven't done it with my guitar yet, seemed like everything was in the same key as well (I'm sure it wasn't). Joe just doesn't do this style of thing.

I just felt there was no 'Joe' in the songs. No highs, no lows, soft, hard. It's not like he was trying to do carbon copies of the originals, but it just sounded incredibly repetitious to me. I have, and will. give it many more listens. But as it stands now I am left wondering if Joe needs a break to get some time to work out what he would like to play as a guitar solo on each cut. It would take considerably longer to get the show ready, but would absolutely be worth the wait in my opinion.

Huh??? Huh???????  I guess I can appreciate your dissatisfaction, but it stops at your inability to read Joe's mind.  I disagree strongly!

All 3 blues greats tributes laid out a sincere and deep appreciation from Joe Bonamassa AND the entire band members enrolled.  It was and is patently obvious Joe B was doing exactly what Joe B wanted to be doing.  I get extremely tired of people dreaming up schemes of manipulation by management and producer.  These shows, also to include Carnegie Hall, Vienna, Beacon Theatre, Beth Hart-Joe, Tour De nonFarce, Anywhere In Particular, New Day very Yesterday are all pure Joe. 

Not accusing you of this, but my personal opinion is that Joe Bonamassa is so versatile that some fans (definitely, NOT rainy day fans) are indeed underwhelmed when what they expect from Joe turns out to be an empty corner one tried to back him into...

But, thanks for your thoughts and opinions.  As far as the homogenous nature of the musical program to include scrutiny of his soloing, I'll give it a go at assessing/reassessing with a somewhat open mind.  Just do not harbor any expectation that I will also conclude a dissatisfaction.  Not going to happen.  I was present at the last 6 shows of 3 Kings, so I was at the Greek also.  There is enough variance between shows that I can say a couple shows outdid the Greek show for musical enjoyment for myself (others are known to concur).


Rock ON & Keep The Faith,
Rocket

"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.”

Re: Reviews of PBS aired Greek Theatre Shows

Rocket wrote:

Huh??? Huh???????  I guess I can appreciate your dissatisfaction, but it stops at your inability to read Joe's mind.  I disagree strongly!

All 3 blues greats tributes laid out a sincere and deep appreciation from Joe Bonamassa AND the entire band members enrolled.  It was and is patently obvious Joe B was doing exactly what Joe B wanted to be doing.  I get extremely tired of people dreaming up schemes of manipulation by management and producer.  These shows, also to include Carnegie Hall, Vienna, Beacon Theatre, Beth Hart-Joe, Tour De nonFarce, Anywhere In Particular, New Day very Yesterday are all pure Joe. 

Not accusing you of this, but my personal opinion is that Joe Bonamassa is so versatile that some fans (definitely, NOT rainy day fans) are indeed underwhelmed when what they expect from Joe turns out to be an empty corner one tried to back him into...

But, thanks for your thoughts and opinions.  As far as the homogenous nature of the musical program to include scrutiny of his soloing, I'll give it a go at assessing/reassessing with a somewhat open mind.  Just do not harbor any expectation that I will also conclude a dissatisfaction.  Not going to happen.  I was present at the last 6 shows of 3 Kings, so I was at the Greek also.  There is enough variance between shows that I can say a couple shows outdid the Greek show for musical enjoyment for myself (others are known to concur).


Rock ON & Keep The Faith,
Rocket


Yeah... I guess I was hoping more for reviews of the show than reviews of my review.

I harbor no expectations from you what so ever. If you have a review I'd like to read it. Maybe I'm just not getting something. I listen to Joe for his prolific guitar prowess. I don't claim to read anyone's mind but as long time Joe fan I know he is capable of producing the most unexpected, spectacular guitar work on the planet. It really wasn't there, at least IMHO, at the Greek theatre show.

Re: Reviews of PBS aired Greek Theatre Shows

NickelWound wrote:
Rocket wrote:

Huh??? Huh???????  I guess I can appreciate your dissatisfaction, but it stops at your inability to read Joe's mind.  I disagree strongly!

All 3 blues greats tributes laid out a sincere and deep appreciation from Joe Bonamassa AND the entire band members enrolled.  It was and is patently obvious Joe B was doing exactly what Joe B wanted to be doing.  I get extremely tired of people dreaming up schemes of manipulation by management and producer.  These shows, also to include Carnegie Hall, Vienna, Beacon Theatre, Beth Hart-Joe, Tour De nonFarce, Anywhere In Particular, New Day very Yesterday are all pure Joe. 

Not accusing you of this, but my personal opinion is that Joe Bonamassa is so versatile that some fans (definitely, NOT rainy day fans) are indeed underwhelmed when what they expect from Joe turns out to be an empty corner one tried to back him into...

But, thanks for your thoughts and opinions.  As far as the homogenous nature of the musical program to include scrutiny of his soloing, I'll give it a go at assessing/reassessing with a somewhat open mind.  Just do not harbor any expectation that I will also conclude a dissatisfaction.  Not going to happen.  I was present at the last 6 shows of 3 Kings, so I was at the Greek also.  There is enough variance between shows that I can say a couple shows outdid the Greek show for musical enjoyment for myself (others are known to concur).


Rock ON & Keep The Faith,
Rocket


Yeah... I guess I was hoping more for reviews of the show than reviews of my review.

I harbor no expectations from you what so ever. If you have a review I'd like to read it. Maybe I'm just not getting something. I listen to Joe for his prolific guitar prowess. I don't claim to read anyone's mind but as long time Joe fan I know he is capable of producing the most unexpected, spectacular guitar work on the planet. It really wasn't there, at least IMHO, at the Greek theatre show.

I'll give feedback and review from the actual DVD when it arrives.  All I can do at this time is watch Lindy's YouTubes and/or listen to audio.  I can easily expect and accept disappointment from others regarding the Greek 3 Kings (or anything Joe has done or will do).  I just don't think it's "not Joe".  You may have some minor agreements from me on some points after I revisit...



Rock ON & Keep The Faith,
Rocket

"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.”

Re: Reviews of PBS aired Greek Theatre Shows

Yeah I'm can only "review" once my DVD comes in.... I'm not even going to watch the PBS special...

Re: Reviews of PBS aired Greek Theatre Shows

In all honesty I'm still watching this over and over again and one thing pops out for sure is that those flying V's really add something new to Joe's sound. What amazing tone. They really add something spectacular to his already spectacular range of tone. Amazing...

Re: Reviews of PBS aired Greek Theatre Shows

Rocket wrote:
NickelWound wrote:
Rocket wrote:

Huh??? Huh???????  I guess I can appreciate your dissatisfaction, but it stops at your inability to read Joe's mind.  I disagree strongly!

All 3 blues greats tributes laid out a sincere and deep appreciation from Joe Bonamassa AND the entire band members enrolled.  It was and is patently obvious Joe B was doing exactly what Joe B wanted to be doing.  I get extremely tired of people dreaming up schemes of manipulation by management and producer.  These shows, also to include Carnegie Hall, Vienna, Beacon Theatre, Beth Hart-Joe, Tour De nonFarce, Anywhere In Particular, New Day very Yesterday are all pure Joe. 

Not accusing you of this, but my personal opinion is that Joe Bonamassa is so versatile that some fans (definitely, NOT rainy day fans) are indeed underwhelmed when what they expect from Joe turns out to be an empty corner one tried to back him into...

But, thanks for your thoughts and opinions.  As far as the homogenous nature of the musical program to include scrutiny of his soloing, I'll give it a go at assessing/reassessing with a somewhat open mind.  Just do not harbor any expectation that I will also conclude a dissatisfaction.  Not going to happen.  I was present at the last 6 shows of 3 Kings, so I was at the Greek also.  There is enough variance between shows that I can say a couple shows outdid the Greek show for musical enjoyment for myself (others are known to concur).


Rock ON & Keep The Faith,
Rocket


Yeah... I guess I was hoping more for reviews of the show than reviews of my review.

I harbor no expectations from you what so ever. If you have a review I'd like to read it. Maybe I'm just not getting something. I listen to Joe for his prolific guitar prowess. I don't claim to read anyone's mind but as long time Joe fan I know he is capable of producing the most unexpected, spectacular guitar work on the planet. It really wasn't there, at least IMHO, at the Greek theatre show.

I'll give feedback and review from the actual DVD when it arrives.  All I can do at this time is watch Lindy's YouTubes and/or listen to audio.  I can easily expect and accept disappointment from others regarding the Greek 3 Kings (or anything Joe has done or will do).  I just don't think it's "not Joe".  You may have some minor agreements from me on some points after I revisit...



Rock ON & Keep The Faith,
Rocket

Watched the PBS edit last night. There was a Rocket sighting. During Born Under a Bad Sign Joe and Rocket the only people in the frame. Pretty cool!!! not very many crowd shots at all in this one.

Quick thoughts. Muddy Wolf I had no idea what to expect and it was the best thing Joe has done since RAH 2009 in my opinion. Three Kings I purposefully didn't watch much if any of Natasha's videos since I was going to The Greek Theater show and wanted to have that same surprise but having already experienced Muddy Wolf I was expecting a lot. It took the entire Freddie set to get me because I'm a Shelter years fan. Of course Hideaway was early Freddie butI heard Clapton's version first. So I guess I was a little disappointed in the song selection only Love her with a feeling was a familiar song to me and not even because Freddie did it. Then  not being a Albert King fan I didn't have any pre conceived notions of what I thought I would hear and was totally blown away by that portion of the night with the BB King set just adding to the excitement the version of Hummingbird which is as good as it gets and Indianola Mississippi Seeds is my favorite BB Album and that is one of my favorite songs from that album  As far as Joe's soloing goes he just plays within the style of the music during these shows more than his own style. He just does it better than anybody else.

Now you take seeing this on PBS and it is really compressed to about 3 songs with infomercial fund drive between I don't know how you can get bored. They cut away to the local phone bank and the phones were ringing off the hook and the tickets were all snapped up with one more airing to go. So you see this exposure that Joe gets from PBS and what it has done for his career and I think he would be crazy to not keep doing them. PBS loves the shows and Joe helps them raise funds while he gains new fans it is a win win. These special shows are special events for the fans and gives you reason to travel even if is a couple of years between stops in your town these days you can hit one of these great locations to see a special night and have a DVD of the experience. I think it is genius whoever's idea it is.

Re: Reviews of PBS aired Greek Theatre Shows

Funny I was able to catch one of the shows and it was incredible!! Having said that I'm always "less" impressed with DVD releases. I guess that's why you gotta go see the real deal when you can

Dont need a helmet to get me through life-walk across the water blame it on foolish pride.

PORTLAND2012/SPRINGFIELD2012/BOSTON2013/HAMPTON BEACH2014/BANGOR2015/PORTLAND2016/PORTLAND2017

11 (edited by DougH 2016-09-01 09:24:53)

Re: Reviews of PBS aired Greek Theatre Shows

my PBS station from Buffalo NY hasn't played Joe in a while.. but I am waiting for my Blu-ray to come in too.

I've noticed that Joe's solo's have changed over the years. I've liked parts of every era; maybe not so much current but you never know what will grow on me , we all have our favorite Joe era.
music is an art and it evolves as we grow,, even Joe's playing is evolving and growing

---------------

(If only I had 1% of Joe's guitar talent)

Re: Reviews of PBS aired Greek Theatre Shows

Rocket wrote:
NickelWound wrote:

First and foremost spoiler alert if you haven't seen it aired on your local PBS you might want to wait and see it for yourself before reading here.

I'm going to start off with what I know will be unpopular, but we're all Joe's fans and always will be so I think we can take it. I was underwhelmed for sure and I find myself wondering if Joe's management is pushing him too hard to pump out work that's not quite ready. I realize PBS only shows part of the entire show, but the concert, while incredibly well set up with the whole big band/backup singers thing, kind of flat-lined for me after the first few songs. It's like it wasn't really Joe's style of playing, but it sure as heck wasn't any of the 'King's' styles either. It was just some odd 'in between'. I decided to just fast forward to the guitar solo's in each song and in almost every case I felt like I was listening to the same solo each time, and, although I haven't done it with my guitar yet, seemed like everything was in the same key as well (I'm sure it wasn't). Joe just doesn't do this style of thing.

I just felt there was no 'Joe' in the songs. No highs, no lows, soft, hard. It's not like he was trying to do carbon copies of the originals, but it just sounded incredibly repetitious to me. I have, and will. give it many more listens. But as it stands now I am left wondering if Joe needs a break to get some time to work out what he would like to play as a guitar solo on each cut. It would take considerably longer to get the show ready, but would absolutely be worth the wait in my opinion.

Huh??? Huh???????  I guess I can appreciate your dissatisfaction, but it stops at your inability to read Joe's mind.  I disagree strongly!

All 3 blues greats tributes laid out a sincere and deep appreciation from Joe Bonamassa AND the entire band members enrolled.  It was and is patently obvious Joe B was doing exactly what Joe B wanted to be doing.  I get extremely tired of people dreaming up schemes of manipulation by management and producer.  These shows, also to include Carnegie Hall, Vienna, Beacon Theatre, Beth Hart-Joe, Tour De nonFarce, Anywhere In Particular, New Day very Yesterday are all pure Joe. 

Not accusing you of this, but my personal opinion is that Joe Bonamassa is so versatile that some fans (definitely, NOT rainy day fans) are indeed underwhelmed when what they expect from Joe turns out to be an empty corner one tried to back him into...

But, thanks for your thoughts and opinions.  As far as the homogenous nature of the musical program to include scrutiny of his soloing, I'll give it a go at assessing/reassessing with a somewhat open mind.  Just do not harbor any expectation that I will also conclude a dissatisfaction.  Not going to happen.  I was present at the last 6 shows of 3 Kings, so I was at the Greek also.  There is enough variance between shows that I can say a couple shows outdid the Greek show for musical enjoyment for myself (others are known to concur).


Rock ON & Keep The Faith,
Rocket

Rocket said it all for me. Just take this as fact before you assume without knowing. Joe does what Joe decides and when he does it. Unless you personnelly are aware of his business dealings I suggest you ALWAYS remember Joe does what Joe wants to do. Come on after all I assume you know who runs JR Adventures? Joe Bonamassa and Roy. I think that says it all.
Ron out

"Joe B saved my soul, forever grateful Ron"
"Some people dream of worthy accomplishments while others stay awake and do them"
Skinner #1,JBLP 145(aged),252, (unaged),#285HM, Bburst #026, Joes 052 BCC black LP, Strat> RT,EC Gilmour,Beck,Lenny LP> PK 83,CC#2,3,4,9,Amps>Carol Ann RAH JB-100 SN 001,JB100 Red SN02,OD2, OD3,Tucana 2&3 Triptix,Twinkle land, Plexi ,JB Jub, Jubs,Plexi,Satch,Two Rock>others

Re: Reviews of PBS aired Greek Theatre Shows

I wasn't at the Greek show but saw 5 of the ones leading up to it and I'm very glad I had the opportunity to see that many because I was unfamiliar with the songs and at the first show we saw, I had a hard time wrapping my head around it all because it was all new material to me and a whole new lineup in the band. As I saw more shows, I really came to appreciate and thoroughly enjoy these songs and Joe's take on them. The last show we saw was the one in San Diego, the day before the Greek and I have to say that was the best one yet. Joe and the band were relaxed and very comfortable with the material and they were just all having a great time. I think whenever a show is filmed, there is a bit of stress on all to get everything exactly right so they kind of go into session mode and try to play it as safe as they can to make sure there are no screw ups. The clips I have seen from the Greek show a very polished act. Does it have the carefree intensity of the previous ones, not sure since I have not seen it all, but I'm pretty sure a lot of people will really enjoy it. I remember months before these shows were to happen, Joe telling us how excited he was to do this tribute because these were the guys he was more familiar with compared with the Muddy Wolf show. So I believe he definitely was doing something he wanted to do. I think these different projects are fun for him because they challenge him and allow him to explore areas he might not have done otherwise.

Re: Reviews of PBS aired Greek Theatre Shows

Is it possible that PBS sets the sample list? Tailoring the show to the demographic that donates or buys from them when they show the specials during beg session airings, as well as fit the time spot spacing.
I remember some great music here and look forward to seeing the airing before passing judgement. I saw it the last show before the Bowl and they were great.
Rick

Free download from Vienna! http://mbsy.co/bNLR
Lots of unique videos of Joe http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cwd5vL8fXTw
Buy Joe's merchandise here. http://www.jbonamassa.com/affiliates/id … hp?id=1381

15 (edited by RoadcaseBoy 2016-09-28 11:30:20)

Re: Reviews of PBS aired Greek Theatre Shows

RickB wrote:

Is it possible that PBS sets the sample list?

Hey Rick ... hope all is well back in the US!

The MTV Live (former Palladia channel) aired the same setlist as PBS ... minus the pledge breaks of PBS (which matched song wise with the MTV regular commercial break intervals.)  MTV airing runs an 1 hr vs 1.5 for PBS (because of the longer pledge breaks).

Guess what I'm trying to say smile ... I'm guessing J&R chose the songs/edit for any public airing. (?)

(I know past MTV / PBS shortened setlists of Beacon, TdeF, RAH have matched as well.)

"I was in Space for less than 2 weeks … and suddenly Jeaniene’s back … half the Band is off the gd wagon … we have comedians opening for us … and the nice kid that ran our website is now a kleptof’nmaniac.  Boy ... did you guys miss me!!"  Phil Valentine - Road Manager - Staton House Band

JBLP#251 (unaged) ... thank you Ron.

Re: Reviews of PBS aired Greek Theatre Shows

RoadcaseBoy wrote:
RickB wrote:

Is it possible that PBS sets the sample list?

Hey Rick ... hope all is well back in the US!

The MTV Live (former Palladia channel) aired the same setlist as PBS ... minus the pledge breaks of PBS (which matched song wise with the MTV regular commercial break intervals.)  MTV airing runs an 1 hr vs 1.5 for PBS (because of the longer pledge breaks).

Guess what I'm trying to say smile ... I'm guessing J&R chose the songs/edit for any public airing. (?)

(I know past MTV / PBS shortened setlists of Beacon, TdeF, RAH have matched as well.)

Ok, it just crossed my mind since all the others have been abbreviated cuts.
Living back here is different. Living the bachelor life after so long is very different. Thank goodness for Face Time.

Free download from Vienna! http://mbsy.co/bNLR
Lots of unique videos of Joe http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cwd5vL8fXTw
Buy Joe's merchandise here. http://www.jbonamassa.com/affiliates/id … hp?id=1381

17 (edited by RoadcaseBoy 2016-09-28 16:12:52)

Re: Reviews of PBS aired Greek Theatre Shows

RickB wrote:

Ok, it just crossed my mind since all the others have been abbreviated cuts.
Living back here is different. Living the bachelor life after so long is very different. Thank goodness for Face Time.

Jane H. wrote:

oh yeah i guess i was not considering the shorter PBS set with my reply - only have seen the whole thing. Still - was feeling like Joe was playing it like he wanted - not thinking more thought would have made it better if that makes sense.

anyone actually have the actual PBS set list?


I stand corrected!! ... "Upon Further Review ... " smile  PBS aired one more song than MTV ... "Boogie Woogie Woman" ... PBS also showed a snippet of the Bonus with Joe's Mother and Father ... along with some of the interview on set from Radio City (Radio City is included in some of the Greek PBS Pledge Packages) ... the Google opening is not shown.  I have to play a few more times but I think they aired full song as on the dvd.  (Maybe that was your question  smile ... were the songs edited down.)

Here's the setlist / order ...

See See Baby
Sittin' On The Boat Dock
Going Down

I'll Play The Blues For You
Angel of Mercy
Oh, Pretty Woman

Boogie Woogie Woman (on PBS)
Hummingbird
Born Under A Bad Sign


Rick, best wishes during your current chapter! smile

"I was in Space for less than 2 weeks … and suddenly Jeaniene’s back … half the Band is off the gd wagon … we have comedians opening for us … and the nice kid that ran our website is now a kleptof’nmaniac.  Boy ... did you guys miss me!!"  Phil Valentine - Road Manager - Staton House Band

JBLP#251 (unaged) ... thank you Ron.

Re: Reviews of PBS aired Greek Theatre Shows

"Rick, best wishes during your current chapter!"

Thanks from me and the cats.
I just gathered together a box of warm clothing plus some undies after a cry from the wilderness of Berlin about MORE WARM CLOTHES. Oh, and a B/R copy of The Greek!  A man should never have to cruise through his lady's dainties! (is this a new bra that fits or one of the old ones?)
What we do for love...
Rick

Free download from Vienna! http://mbsy.co/bNLR
Lots of unique videos of Joe http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cwd5vL8fXTw
Buy Joe's merchandise here. http://www.jbonamassa.com/affiliates/id … hp?id=1381