We saw two groups in concert yesterday, and both were wonderful.
The Blind Boys of Alabama
http://www.blindboys.com/main.html They are amazing! Their story is amazing! Their name gives you some indication of their age and the era and circumstances they were born into. They have won 4 Grammys in the last few years. They are showmen who use who they are to woo their audience and get us up on our feeting clapping and cheering several times. (Staid, middle-aged and middle class Canadians yelling and cheering! Almost Unbelievable!)
When they came in, guided in a chain with their hands on their shoulders, and obviously quite old, a kind of patronizing preparation sets in; I was ready to make allowances. None needed! Their voices are truly powerful and so is their stage presence. If you get a chance, go see them. If you can't go see them, get one of their CDs.
The House of Doc
http://www.houseofdoc.com/home.html Much younger and Canadian; their musicianship is impressively tight. The range of instruments and the intense harmony, plus the stage commentary of their leader all got the audience (same usually staid folks!) on their feet, clapping and cheering. CDs and show - highly recommend.
technorati tags:Blind_Boys, House_of_Doc, music
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