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January 15, 2007
Freebo Again
Last Friday night we had the opportunity to see Freebo perform at the unity Church in Melbourne, Florida. (We went on a "double date" with Spike and Sandy. Hey, we sure had fun!).
The first time we saw Freebo perform was at a private house concert. We’ve also seen him perform as a duo with Jim Photoglo.
Here's some information from Freebo's Website:
Freebo's success in rock'n’roll has been well documented over the years. From bass player/band member with Bonnie Raitt for a decade to countless studio sessions and tours with artists ranging from John Mayall, Crosby, Stills and Nash, Maria Muldaur and Ringo Starr, to T.V. appearances on "Saturday Night Live," "Midnight Special," and "Muppets Tonight," as well as tuba performances with Dr. John and the legendary Spinal Tap, Freebo has achieved status and respect in a creative and highly competitive field.
Not satisfied with simply resting on his laurels as a top sideman, Freebo has continued to push his creative envelope, and now has evolved into an acclaimed singer/songwriter, with three well received solo CDs to his credit, 1999's "The End Of The Beginning," 2002's "Dog People" (songs about the human/canine connection), and his new CD, "Before The Separation."
Released in October 2005, Freebo's latest shows his complete arrival and comfort as a singer/songwriter, with thoughtful and insightful lyrics sung with soul and passion, framed by his acoustic guitar and signature fretless bass, and supported by tasty drums, electric guitar, and harmonica, played by some of rock music's finest musicians.
Freebo's songs span styles from folk, blues, and country to R&B, reggae, and rock 'n' roll, and incorporate themes of love, struggle, triumph, peace, and the journey of life. His live performances, mainly on acoustic guitar, take you on a musical and lyrical ride. Freebo creates an intimate unity with his audience and will likely leave you with a tear in your eye, but with a smile on your face.
What makes Freebo worth listening to?
His performance is polished, but not slick. He is definitely a skilled musician, but when he performs, it's just him and his acoustic guitar. No lip-synching, no fancy lights, no dancers, no explosions, just a man and his music.
He's worth listening to because he has something to say. He has definite opinions on the way things are in the world, and he is able to express these views eloquently through his songs. He invites you through what he says and sings to get involved in the world, to have an opinion, to care about something. He gives you something to think about.
When Freebo performs he gets the audience involved. He had us singing, whistling, and even doing harmony parts.
He comes across as earnest and humble, but quite sure of himself on stage. He obviously loves what he does and that contributes greatly to our enjoyment.
We had a chance to talk to him after the concert, and he was happy to see us again. He let us know that he would be willing to play bass on Sheryl's next project. I certainly hope it works out so that we can take him up on that!
Freebo and Friend (All right, his dog Harlow)
Posted by leon at January 15, 2007 07:30 PM
Comments
Enjoyed the "double date"! Freebo put on a great show...2 hours of non-stop playing and interaction with the audience...very entertaining! He is so confident & relaxed and it comes across to the listener.
The hot fudge brownie ala-mode wasn't bad either!
Posted by: Sandy at January 16, 2007 09:33 AM