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Dignified and Daring on Veteran's Day A SoundPress.net Feature Article by Rich and Laura Lynch In 2009, guitar greats Robert Cray and Jonny Lang shared the stage at a number of shows including a stop at the BergenPAC in Englewood, New Jersey on November 11, 2009. The BergenPAC is a timeless theater located in the heart of downtown Englewood. It is surrounded by cafes and shops allowing for an evening of entertainment. The BergenPAC's calendar features a wide range of events from comedy, concerts and educational programs.
 Robert Cray on stage at the BergenPAC in Englewood, New Jersey. Robert Cray is a guitarist and singer who has won multiple Grammys for songs that blend the blues with soul. In his early 20's - having the pleasure of seeing Albert Collins, Freddie King and Muddy Waters live - Robert formed his own band, perfected his craft and built up to commercial success. To this day Cray records and tours and the band is currently on the road in support of This Time - his first new studio album in four years. Robert and his four piece backing band took the BergenPAC stage around eight p.m. and proceeded to open with a sassy and soulful version of "Our Last Time". The song combined up-tempo blues with solid solos on Cray's trusty Fender guitar. The Robert Cray Band set was a meld of blues and sentimental soul. Cray was clean and concise on guitar and his talented group (Tony Braunagel-drums, Jim Pugh-keys/organ and Richard Cousins-bass) were tight and convincing. "Phone Booth" rang with righteous rhythms and an outspoken organ as the piece progressed through a series of grooves and moods. It was followed by the slower storytelling of "Poor Johnny". Cray's string work shimmered as his notes conversed in what is a signature style of playing. Robert crafted guitar lead with a delay that gave the effect of doubling the sound. Introducing a newer song, the band played "Love 2009" an up-tempo tune that showcased an emotional and enticing solo from Cray. Bassist Richard Cousins danced a bit before the band broke into "Bad Influence" that featured forceful fret work countered by colorful keys and closed with the caustic statement "you suck". Bold bass lines and rich riffs set the mood for "Right Next Door (Because of Me)" a yarn about a relationship broken up by the narrator. Sticking with the cheating theme the band played "Chicken in the Kitchen". The interpretation included sizzling guitar solos punctuated by piano in a blues based blend. "The One in the Middle" was a sad, soulful song about love. Robert sang a number of high notes and spoke some of the lyrics as the tale moved into an organ solo and some antics from Cousins. The Robert Cray Band closed the set with a smoking version of "Smoking Gun". This signature song is still hot and hit home with the attentive BergenPAC audience. The encore included the reflective life/love song "I Can't Fail" that flowed from lush to languid leads and the snazzy "That's What Keeps Me Rockin'".
 Jonny Lang excels in a live setting. Jonny Lang had a gift for the guitar from early on. Jonny started playing at age twelve and by age fourteen had released his first record. This Grammy award winner has toured with the best including B.B. King, Buddy Guy and the Rolling Stones to name but a few. Lang's compositions meld blues, gospel and rock and he is well known for his use of wide vibratos. The line-up for the Veteran's Day show was Jonny Lang - guitar & vocals, Jim Anton-bass, Akil Thompson - guitar, Dwan Hill - keys, Barry Alexander-drums; and, Jason Eskridge - BVG & percussion. Robert Cray was a dignified expert of the guitar whereas Jonny Lang was daring and more dramatic on the instrument. Jonny opened with "Give Me Up Again" which ran the gamut from pensive to potent. Lang's bandmates provided supporting harmonies adding to the soulfulnes of the song before it returned to a sizzle. "A Quitter Never Wins" was a bold bluesy ballad followed by "Thankful" with Jason on vocals leading the group through a vibrant song about life and faith. "Don't Stop (For Anything)" was full of frenzied fret work and furious rhythms resembling a train that had the theater vibrating. Fans were on their feet and Jonny responded "you guys are awesome" and took a moment to introduce the group. "Red Light" was a hymn of hope that Jonny sang from the heart and punctuated with passionate playing. Dwan on keys added pretty patterns like soft rain to the song. "Breakin' Me" was performed acoustically and combined plaintive prose with potent picking before the band joined in to add pulse to the piece. "Lie To Me" was rousing with resounding rhythms and Lang's lavish lush leads. The band closed the set with a soulful version of Stevie Wonder's "Livin' For The City". Jonny Lang was intricate and intense playing with emotion and his vocals were just as intriguing. Lang's seasoned band was spot on adding to the full spectrum of Jonny's soundscapes. The combination of Robert and Jonny was a treat for guitar fans and a tribute to many styles of music especially the blues. Both veteran players are masters of their instruments and both of their sets were engaging and energized.
Robert Cray's Setlist: 11/11/2009
Jonny Lang's Setlist 11/11/2009
 Related Links: For more information on ROBERT CRAY & JONNY LANG and the other organizations mentioned please visit the following links -- RobertCray.com | Buy This Time CD | JonnyLang.com | Buy Turn Around CD | BergenPAC.org
(Originally Published on November 16, 2009) |
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