The Thrill is Definitely NOT Gone...

Saw BB King Last Night at one of our more intimate venues. Tickets were a birthday present from the little lady.

Second time I've had the pleasure. First was at "his place" on Beale St. in Memphis maybe 8 years ago. He's 79 now, does his set in a chair and surely is not all he once was, but still puts on a great show. More of an engaging entertainer than I remember. Case in point after a few ladies managed to get on stage for a kiss, he cautioned them, “Ladies, I may be 79 year-old diabetic with bad knees, but other parts still work!”

His best work was a portion in the middle where it was just him and Lucille joined by bass, rhythm guitar and drums. This five-song bit included an obligatory rendition of "The Thrill is Gone". He really seemed to get into the simplicity of this segment. More emotion in his play and his face than the rest of the show.

Bookending the paired down portion was the full BB King Band, adding keyboards (piano and a wonderful, old Hammond organ) and four-man horn section (bass and alto sax, trumpet and flugelhorn). Horn section members also doubled on flute and clarinet at times. All of the band members are very, very good.

Dr. John opened. Fourth time I’ve seen him over the past 30 years. Was hoping he’s drag out some Lowell George tunes as in the past (actually did a couple of these opening for Little Feat a few years ago), but had to settle for a little Leadbelly. The good Dr.’s set was uneven, but had some highs (especially when he turned to the Hammond). One of which was not “Right Place, Wrong Time.” Again obligatory, I guess, but that was 30 years ago, and even then it was never as good live as the studio track was.

Anyway, it was a very enjoyable evening. If they’re coming your way, consider going.