A Look Back: August 1

By Mike Stampalia.

60 years ago: Thelonious Monk @ Berkshire Music Barn

Monk’s piano sounded as if it were being played only by his right hand, a tired right hand that relied on many varying repetitions of simple, odd phrases rather than the invention of new ones and whose fingers fumbled with astonishing frequency.

– R.C.H. for the Morning Union

40 years ago: Liza Minnelli @ Saratoga Performing Arts Center

Instead of giving the people what they have come to hear, Liza spends far too much time singing obscure songs and sharing the stage with a trio of Los Angeles breakdancers, the Footlockers.

– Don A. Metivier for the Post-Star

Bon Jovi / Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes @ Saratoga Performing Arts Center

But the most touching tribute of the night was when Jon Bon Jovi introduced opening act Southside Johnny by saying, “Without him, there’d be no me.”

Then Bon Jovi invited Southside Johnny Lyon out for a barrelhouse boogie through “Working Too Hard,” each singer playing off of the other with perfect give and take.

– Greg Haymes for the Time Union

1 year ago: Galactic / Hilltop @ Alive at Five

Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph of Galactic at Albany’s Alive at Five (August 1, 2024) – photo by Timothy Reidy for RadioRadioX

Between singer Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph’s undeniable stage presence and the band’s exceptional musicianship, the show was a masterclass in funk.  Highlights of the night included Jelly’s powerful rendition of “Right On,” Glen D. Andrews’ soulful “You Don’t Know,” and the crowd-pleasing “Crazyhorse Mongoose.”

– Chris Bobillo for NYS Music

Visit onstagealbany.com to keep up with Capital District concert reviews, both old and new.