15 November, 1998 - Los Angeles, CA - Troubador

 

review by Roy Jurgens

I am a jaded Los Angeleno - I've seen the best roll through town and often given the obligatory Bronx cheer. But what I witnessed at the Troubadour Sunday nite was sheer heaven. Lanegan growled, whispered, and howled through one sonic escapade after another. The band left me open-mouthed, never overplaying, never underplaying, just a swirling concerto around Lanegan's rasp. Marc Olsen torchered rich tones from his guitar while Mike Johnson provided minimalist Lou Reed jangle. What else can you say about Ben Shepherd other than the fact that he was Ben Shepherd...solid as a rock. Marc Boquist's drumming reminded me of John Densmore's theatrical style, not just keeping time, but ebbing and flowing with the mood of each piece. Mark just stood there - like a roaring Irishman, as if he were atop Mt. Ranier.

I am just kicking myself for not bringing more people to this show.

I own all three of Lanegan's solo works and am a huge fan of (and influenced by) his work - but never did I expect to be blown away as I was. Come back soon...real soon.