A Look Back: June 25

By Mike Stampalia.

40 years ago: Eric Clapton @ Saratoga Performing Arts Center

This was the Clapton everybody had heard before and expected, the wronged and downtrodden, content to let these melancholy melodies flow through and shiver his slender posture as if he were a public lightning rod on unrequited love and sorrow.

After the Clapton of old, it seemed imminent that a succession of the muddied song of “Slowhand’s” newest creation would surface. They did.

– Jeff Plude for the Post-Star

20 years ago: Steps Ahead (2005) featuring Michael Brecker, Mike Mainieri, Steve Smith, Mike Stern & Richard Bona / Lizz Wright / McCoy Tyner Trio with special guests Ravi Coltrane & Terell Stafford / Charlie Hunter Trio / Jazz Attack featuring Rick Braun, Jonathan Butler, Richard Elliot & Peter White / John Pizzarelli Quartet / Lou Donaldson Quartet / The Motet / Gretchen Parlato Quartet / Terell Stafford Quartet / D’Gary / El Eco @ Saratoga Performing Arts Center

Best known to many for his TV spots with the tagline ‘Meet me at Foxwoods,’ John Pizzarelli showcased himself as an incredibly nimble guitarist whose instrumental virtuosity is handsomely complimented by his understated vocal style. Working every inch of his seven-string guitar during an absolutely jaw-dropping chord solo on ‘It’s Only A Paper Moon,’ Pizzarelli was also wonderfully effective as he offered wistful readings of the lovely ballad ‘Say It (Over and Over Again)’ and ‘The Girl From Ipanema.

– James Lamperetta for the Saratogian

10 years ago: J. Roddy Walston / Avers @ Alive at Five

The four-piece band out of Baltimore didn’t disappoint and showed the crowd for almost an hour-and-a-half that rock and roll is still alive and well in today’s world of music.

“Sweat Shock,” “Take It As It Comes” and “Marigold” had the crowd fully engaged, dancing and jumping all over Jennings Landing. J. Roddy constantly swung his long hair violently as he played some old boogie-woogie style piano. With a quick wave of the hand to the crowd, the band exited the stage while the crowd chanted for more.

– Bryan Lasky for NYS Music