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January 14, 2006
Freebo and Photoglo
Last night was one of those nights that remind me of why I keep playing music.
Sheryl and I had the privilege of opening for Freebo and Photoglo. Let me tell you, if these guys ever come to your town, run, don’t walk to see them! The crowd at the Majestic was very vocal in their approval.
Sheryl and I opened the concert, with Freebo and I backing Sheryl on bass and keyboard respectively. It was exciting to play with a world-class bassist like Freebo, it took our performance to a new level, and it was obviously fun for the audience to hear. Freebo performed Sheryl’s songs with no rehearsal, having played most of them only a few times about two years ago when he played on Sheryl’s CD, but he was solid.
Sheryl was especially impressive as the “opening act”. (If I do say so myself. But I was not the only one to say so!) How proud can one man be of his better half?
As for the “headliners”, even though they are both long time established solo artists, Freebo and Photoglo make a first-rate duo. They are at times reminiscent of “The Odd Couple”. Take a look at the photos on their website (http://www.freebophotoglo.com/) and see if you can tell which one is which.
Their vocals harmonies are tight, and they take turns playing each other’s songs, one playing bass while the other plays guitar. They traded back and forth between bass and guitar.
Countless years of gigging have developed in them the ability to almost instantly achieve an easy rapport with the audience, and the strength of their material keeps the interest level at a high degree.
They demonstrate a palpable sense of friendship and a present unique contrast of performing and writing styles. Photoglo’s writing is classic Nashville: striking melodies, and insightful and memorable lyrics, as befits a man who’s had a fair measure of success as a songwriter. (One of his songs is featured on the new Garth Brooks Box Set). He delivers it all with flawless guitar playing and an amazingly elastic and expressive voice.
Freebo is the more idiosyncratic of the two. Many of his songs are songs that only he could sing, but they are no less memorable or well written. Years of playing for some of the biggest names in music, and playing his own music all around the country have made him a consummate performer.
I could go on and on, but we’ve got to get ready to go do it all again!
Sometimes this music thing can be more fun than a human being should be allowed to have.
I’ll be back Monday; I usually will not post anything on Sundays.
Posted by leon at January 14, 2006 01:51 PM