By Christopher John Treacy : Boston Herald
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Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Jackson Browne refrained from mouthing off about his "Running on Empty" copyright infringement suit against John McCain Tuesday night at the Orpheum. The nearly 60-year-old songwriter charmed the audience through a night that leaned heavily on brand new music, a tricky maneuver but one he pulled off admirably.
Indeed, Browne made a good case for his new CD, "Time the Conqueror," which arrives in stores next week, mainly by demonstrating how little he's changed. His last two releases have been eager-to-please concert recordings culled from solo shows. Full band tours leave less room for flexibility, but the fullness of the arrangements more than compensated for his sticking to a set list.
"Boulevard," from 1980's transitional "Hold Out," made for a lively opener, featuring harmonies from piano man Jeff Young and impeccable backup singers Chavonne Morris and Alethea Mills.
The first set included four new songs, including title track "Time the Conqueror" with its gorgeous melodic pop, the Laurel Canyon-inspired "Off of Wonderland" and "Live Nude Cabaret," which showcased the raunchy, blues guitar of Mark Goldenberg.
The ponderous "Giving That Heaven Away" wore thin, but Browne, in fine voice, managed a good save with "Doctor My Eyes/About My Imagination." Written 30 years apart, the two songs thematically complement one another and gave Morris and Mills the opportunity to display their gospel wares. The backup singers also upped the chill factor during an acoustic "Something Fine," a fan favorite from Browne's debut album.
Stripped of its mid-'80s production values, "Lives in the Balance" soared with added verses. It was the start of a political triptych which also included "Drums of War" and "Going Down to Cuba."
After his big hits "The Pretender" and "Running on Empty," Browne finished with the festive reggae of "I Am a Patriot." He proudly clarified his stance, singing: "I ain't no Democrat, but I ain't no Republican/I only know one party, and it is freedom.
By Christopher John Treacy : Boston Herald
