GENERAL FAN COMMENTS:

I was at the benefit in Santa Barbara a couple of weeks ago that someone mentioned.

Jackson had brought two guitars to raffle off. They are prototypes for a Jackson Browne model that Gibson will be putting out. I went over to look at it and he came over and picked it up and started playing... then realized that he'd brought the wrong one. He had been up at his Santa Barbara house the night before and played both and decided to raffle off the one he liked the least. However, when he started playing it, he realized he'd brought the wrong one to raffle. He told that story when they were going to raffle it and also said that if it didn't get $3,000 or more, that he'd sell it on e-bay but the first one brought in $6500 so he said, "Did I mentioned I have TWO guitars?" and sold the second for $6,000.

I mentioned to Jackson that I'd seen J.D. Souther the night before and he asked how the show was. Terrific, of course, as usual.

Submitted by: lindamose@sbcglobal.net

---

GENERAL FAN COMMENTS:

Hi Russ

I just caught this the other day. Jackson Browne did a guest appearance at Donavon Frankenreiter who was playing in Irvine, CA on June 10th. It is a really good video!

YouTube - The Weight

Submitted by: hsalole@aol.com (Hermoine)

---

GENERAL FAN COMMENTS:

Thank you for your website! I really enjoy it. In regards to his Soundstage appearance, I agree with a previous letter from someone that even though the show was very good, it would have been better if it could have been 2 parts and included more songs. I saw him twice in 2008 in the Phoenix, AZ. metro area. Including his Phoenix show the night before the election which was very cool! I know he can put on a great show and I wish they would have included more of it! I was able to watch it in Michigan while I was on vacation which I was thankful for. Especially since it was on a cable station back in AZ. which I don't receive. Thank you again for your website. Keep up the good work!

Submitted by: cleetrap@hotmail.com

---

CONCERT REVIEW: July 7 at Casino Rama in Orilia, ON

About two dozen people sent me the following link with a review of the July 7th concert at Casino Rama in Orilia, Ontario, Canada:

http://jam.canoe.ca/Music/Artists/B/Browne_Jackson/ConcertReviews/2009/07/08/10057766-sun.html

Submitted by: Your Webmaster

---

CONCERT REVIEW: July 7 at Casino Rama in Orilia, ON

Hi Russ: This was the first concert of the summer tour!!! We were really happy when Jackson announced that he would play here in Ontario Canada. He rarely comes and plays in Canada, I guess there just never was the demand?! We were actually surprised when I saw that he was playing Casino Rama, Orillia is about an hour and a half from Toronto but the venue has been drawing quite a variety of acts. My husband and I had never been there but knew we would have to get some tickets. We definitely were not disappointed, Jackson was in great form, his voice was excellent and he seemed quite energetic after having a month off. He of course had great hair, though had a scruffy unsahaven face. He is very thin but does look good for his age.

He keep to a set list and only a few shouted out requests, my husband with his favourite song, "Farther On". One man yelled out that it had been thirteen years since he had played in Ontario. Jackson introduced a new song and explained it was for his girlfriend but she was not with him on this trip. He then proceeded to play "Just say Yeah" and struggled with the lyrics twice, he laughed it off. Most listeners wouldn't of notice if he hadn't started over. He only played for an hour 40 minutes and he did leave us wanting more but I think the concerts at the casino are short so that people go off and spend their money at the casino. I'll send a review from Toronto paper. Take Care,

Submitted by: kikikwin@gmail.com (Frances)

---

GENERAL FAN COMMENTS:

Hi Russ

I appeared at the Olympia in Dublin on thursday 9th July compering the show I produce---- an evening with Ricky Hatton and Frank Bruno!!

I was really excited to be appearing on a stage that I had seen Jackson 3 times previously performing on. I told a sold out audience of 1200 boxing fans how excited I was to be on a stage I had seen Jackson Browne appear on. (They seemed indifferent to my excitement!). Ricky, who until recently held 5 World Champion titles at 2 weights was excited because one of his big heroes Johnny Cash had also appeared there. Throughout my evening and performance all I could think of were the emotions I felt during For a Dancer and Sky Blue and Black back in April. How I'd seen grown men and women openly weeping at various times as the feelings of mutuality swept over them whilst Jackson gave it his all. Or how most of time the conqueror came alive live.

I was actually in Jacksons dressing room!! The staff said he was polite but very private. No real insights. We got a standing ovation, or rather Frank and the Ricky did, but I had Jackson on my mind all evening. I'm not sure what any of this has to do with your great site but I'm putting it out there anyway!!

If anyone in England is interested in the shows we do have a look on a1sportingmemorabilia.com.

Take it easy

Submitted by: terry@a1sportingspeakers.com (Terry)

---

CONCERT REVIEW: July 11 at Salle Wilfrid Pelletier - Place des Arts in Montreal, QC

Hi Russ,

Here's an interesting review from the Montreal Gazette of Jackson's show last night at the Montreal Jazz Festival.

Montreal jazz fest 2009: Jackson Browne: The set list
http://communities.canada.com/montrealgazette/blogs/wordsandmusic/archive/2009/07/12/montreal-jazz-fest-2009-jackson-browne-the-set-list.aspx

Montreal jazz fest 2009: A born-again Jackson Browne fan repents
http://communities.canada.com/montrealgazette/blogs/wordsandmusic/archive/2009/07/12/montreal-jazz-fest-2009-a-born-again-jackson-browne-fan-repents.aspx

Regards,

Submitted by: anonymous

---

CONCERT REVIEW: July 11 at Salle Wilfrid Pelletier - Place des Arts in Montreal, QC

Hi Russ,

Here's my take on the show. If you decide to use it, please post anonymously. Thanks always for a great website.

Concert review July 11 at Salle Wilfrid Pelletier - Place des Arts in Montreal, QC

Set List:

Boulevard
The Barricades of Heaven
Fountain of Sorrow
Time the Conqueror
Off of Wonderland
Live Nude Cabaret
Giving That Heaven Away
Doctor My Eyes/About My Imagination

Intermission

Too Many Angels
Lives in the Balance
Going Down to Cuba
The Naked Ride Home
Just Say Yeah
For a Dancer
The Pretender
Running on Empty

Encore

I am a Patriot/It's Your Thing

I really enjoyed the concert. If it's true that people were milling about during the show, as someone blogged on the jazzfest website, then I feel fortunate to have been spared the sight of this inconsiderate behaviour. From my vantage point near the stage, it was two hours of great music, further enhanced by the engaging stage presence of a performer who truly knows how to entertain.

At around 7:40 p.m., Jackson headed out on stage to a standing ovation and proceeded to delight the crowd with a few words in French, before launching into a rousing rendition of Boulevard. A brief video clip of his opening number has since appeared on Jazz Fest Soundcheck: Episode 8 at www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/festival-central/Jazz+Fest+Soundcheck+Episode+with+music+from+Jackson+Browne+Nikki+Yanofsky+Beirut/1783762/story.html.

After a heartfelt Barricades of Heaven, he took to the keyboards for a moving version of Fountain of Sorrow, which drew considerable applause from a (mostly) first-time audience, eagerly anticipating his classics.

If at the outset he appeared a bit more tentative than usual, this would soon change. It may be he was initially distracted by sound issues which seemed to plague him at various times throughout the show. At one point he even walked over to the sound guy off stage, while still playing the guitar, to correct the situation. I might add that from where I was sitting, he sounded great.

Some highlights. Live Nude Cabaret was definitely one. Although this song had not originally been one of my favourites, it has grown on me over time and I thought it worked very well live. It seems to take on a whole new life when performed on stage, enhanced by low lighting and the atmosphere a venue like this affords. In his introduction, Jackson paid homage to Leonard Cohen, seemingly alluding to the stylistic similarities between this song and Cohen's work.

He added that LNC was about reconciling desire and spirituality and then, quite suddenly, decided he had talked too much, concluding that, in the end, it was better to PLAY the song, rather than talk about it. Personally, I've always found that the background he provides contributes to, rather than detracts from, his songs.

Doctor My Eyes/About my Imagination picked up the pace considerably. Was it already time for intermission? It felt like the show had just started.

He opened the second set with Too Many Angels and then played a great, gospel-tinged version of Lives in the Balance. This song has really been transformed by the vocals of Alethea and Chavonne, as well as the new verse which has been added.

As a prelude to Going down to Cuba, he mentioned that he had always wanted to come to Montreal and said he enjoyed playing in Canada, adding with a curious smile, "it's different here, you may have noticed." He went on to say that while Canadians could travel to Cuba, the band had to claim they were a religious group, which was "pretty far from the truth," in order to do so.

The Naked Ride Home featured an enthusiastic "guest" appearance by Manny Alvarez, the guitar tech, who was called upon to play guitar on this number. I thought he did an admirable job.

Next Jackson played Just Say Yeah, my favourite song on the album. While it's true that he did, by his own admission, "mess up" on this one, his suggestion of a free solo from each of the band members was pretty entertaining. Most of them obliged, providing us with some inspired spontaneity.

At this point, Jackson mentioned that he'd pretty much dispensed with the set list, leading to a flurry of requests: one for Shaky Town, an impassioned plea (as always) for Late for the Sky and another for For a Dancer, which he did play.

His performance of this song, along with the Pretender and Running on Empty, which followed, were additional highlights. I thought he really ended on a high note.

Many of the shows here at the jazzfest are filmed and later re-broadcast. I don't know if this one was, but I'd be thrilled to see a televised version of it---for its musical highlights as well as its unrehearsed moments.

All in all, a great show. Jackson certainly made his mark here during his first visit to the city. Of the 3000 musicians from 30 countries who graced Montreal stages between June 30 and July 12, he was one of only 12 whose photographs accompanied the festival's review in the Montreal Gazette today..which pretty much speaks for itself.

On a final note: to Gazette music critic and born-again Jackson Browne fan, Bernard Perusse, who blew him off for 37 years, I can only say.oh, what you missed.

Submitted by: anonymous

---

CONCERT REVIEW: July 13 at Ives Concert Park in Danbury, CT

Hi Russ,

I have loved your web site for years - but I'm not one to write into web sites,....

However, after seeing JB last night in Danbury, I just have to!!! It was amazing - and believe me, I have seen him live... from No Nukes when I lived in the city, to the acoustic tour and actually met him at a John Hall benefit in my home town in NY, etc. But last night was the most incredible performance I have ever seen! To see him again with his incredible band and the 2 fab back-up singers made the show. He did not stick to the format of the tour shows that you see reported on your site - many more from "I'M Alive". He had the entire audience on their feet and dancing under the stars (yes, it was an outdoor concert). And it was too funny when Jackson said " it's gorgeous here - you should see the sunset behind you.... of course everyone turned around at the same time - he was right - and he did laugh!!!!

Keep up the great work.

Submitted by: Amy

---

CONCERT REVIEWS: July 10 at LeBreton Flats in Ottawa, ON and July 11 at Salle Wilfrid Pelletier - Place des Arts in Montreal, QC

We drove west out of Montreal Friday afternoon to Ottawa since The Pretender was in town participating in their annual Bluesfest celebration. Lebreton Flats Park consisting of five stages was a wonderful place to sing and dance.

Sam Roberts put out a tremendous show at 8:00 then we made the move over for Jackson at around 9:30. He was very well recieved performing maybe for a little over an hour asking us to" stay" then going away. Many of us there were under the influence........

You know I've seen Jackson many times before and Saturday night in Montreal was for me was one of the best. The sound was absolutely superb.

Doctor My Eyes did not elevate the people out of their chair so I somehow managed to strap myself in. Although he managed to get the ladies on the left to start undressing themselves while he was Running On Empty.

This night will forever be inside me.

Once Again Russ Thankyou

Submitted by: leeann13@sympatico.ca (Walt)

---

CONCERT REVIEW: July 13 at Ives Concert Park in Danbury, CT

The Ives Concert Park has got to be the most beautiful concert venue I have ever seen. Nestled in the woods of Danbury, Connecticut, this pristine park boasts an open field for the audience surrounded by lush woods and greenery. It was a good hour and a half or more drive from New Jersey, but a very pleasant one at that. The park is actually a part of the Westside campus of Western Connecticut State University.

At around 7:40 I heard the familiar opening strains of Tender is the Night - from inside a quick trip to the porta-potty of all places! I thought, oh my, the show is beginning already and with a newly dusted off gem. I don't recall him playing this one at all in recent years, at least not at the many shows I've seen.

I meandered over to my 7th row seat as Jackson and co. began Barricades and you could tell that Jackson was really enjoying the moment, what with the breathtaking twilight view he had of the melting sun and parading clouds. Behind the beautifully constructed bandshell was a large pond, almost like a small lake, and in front was a little gated "moat." It made the stage seem like the inner courtyard of a castle while separating the artist and audience with a few feet of water! Jackson wore a very decorative patterned shirt that I thought was very twisty.

At one point, Jackson turned around to comment about the lush green paradise behind Fritz (fantastic drummer). There was also some type of mist going on behind the band that I wasn't sure was all about. Dragonflies and other little critters swooped around with the proximity of the waters, but it was an unusually cool July night so they weren't much of a problem.

The highlight of the first set was Jamaica Say You Will - what with the pond, the moat and the setting sun - was quite fitting with the sailing away imagery of a fading romance to match the fading sunlight.

While Doctor My Eyes was stellar as always including an awesome rendition of About My Imagination, I still miss the These Days segue of yore!

Other key songs of the first half were Fountain of Sorrow and Time the Conqueror. The latter is one of my favorite JB songs ever but the sound mix and slide guitar on this one seemed a bit off to me. I've always greatly preferred the natural reverberation of concert halls to the dry sound of an outdoor show, but the exceptional scenery made this venue a winner.

For fans used to JB's solo acoustic shows: The sound was good overall but it's definitely not like seeing an indoor solo acoustic show where you can hear every nuance of the acoustic guitar, piano and singing. Jackson's microphone and instrument levels seemed to be set just a tad too low for my tastes, while Kevin's tight bass handiwork, for example, was loud, groovy and thumping.

The first set seemed to be a bit short, but we were treated to a much longer second set that opened up with Drums of War, which seemed to get a tepid audience reaction, as far as anti-war rants, commentaries and protests go, at least compared to the rousing Lives in the Balance. Jackson seemed to use a new special effect on the "rap" part of Drums of War, while on Lives in the Balance the exquisite Middle Eastern string work of Mark Goldenberg and R&B vocals of Chavonne and Alethea stole the song!

They played 4 songs from I'm Alive, I believe all in a row, including a mesmerizing performance of Too Many Angels. Chavonne and Alethea handled the "voices sing of day" etc. background vocals very well, while Jackson sang "bring the morning on" quicker and earlier than normal and left the vocal theatrics to the girls. Fritz did some amazing Latin percussion work on what I believe is a traditional instrument that looks like a wooden box called a "cajon."

Miles Away and I'll Do Anything are good solid songs, but pale in comparison to the evening's highlights. I'm Alive, a great latter-day JB tune, didn't shine and sparkle for me with Jackson opting for a low note version of the chorus with the girls singing the bring 'em home sections. Jackson's lone voice on the high notes in the chorus really did it justice in the past.

Jackson's voice has definitely evolved into a fine wine of wisdom and darker tones. It actually reminds me a little of the transition that Joni Mitchell's voice has made from her high soprano chanteuse to her current jazzy alto. Although he still belts out The Pretender and Running on Empty as good as always, you can definitely hear a distinguished deepening and thickening of his tone a la Leonard Cohen in places. It was quite evocative in a wonderful way on Going Down to Cuba where Jackson sang the tuneful song's trademark low phrases quite adeptly.

When Jackson introduced one selection as a "drinking song" that had to be done with a band or it would be too sad to be sung alone, I anticipated something out of left field. It was actually a performance of the stoic The Naked Ride Home with tech Manny Alvarez helping out on electric guitar. I don't get the "drinking song" analogy - maybe somebody can help me out here? This was probably the only clunker of the night for me as while it sports a nice melody, lyrically it doesn't hit home for me.

Let me not forget to mention the amazing Jeff Young whose wonderful work on the keys and resonant background vocals played a very prominent and awesome part of the mix in every song.

Jackson's patter was sparse - he did joke about there being 2 kinds of people in the audience (while interjecting that there were really more than that) - the people who wanted to hear songs he hasn't played in 20 years (who doesn't want to hear him unearth a gem) and people who want to hear the new stuff. Personally, I have my favorites like we all do but for the most part I'm perfectly happy to hear him play what he wants to as it's evident that he really does mix up the set quite liberally. I was very happy that the set was greatly different from the Philly show I saw last September.

According to my tally, Jackson sang 7 songs from the 70's, 3 from the 80's, 5 from the 90's, and 7 from the 2000's. You really couldn't complain that he didn't give us a generous helping of his legendary 70's material and the very best of the 80's. I thought about half the 90's and up newer material was particularly good in both craftsmanship and performance. Overall one of my fave ever concerts because of the inspiring venue, stellar band and stand-out performances.

Rather than try to remember the exact order, here's the tally by decade with my fave selections / stand-out performances starred:

70's
Doctor My Eyes***
For a Dancer***** (audience request that beat out Sky Blue & Black - which actually got a bigger shout I thought - but so glad he did Dancer instead - first time I've ever heard it with band! Jackson was literally singing under the stars and on the line "let your prayers go drifting into space" there was nary a dry eye for many)
Fountain of Sorrow* (love this one, maybe because he's played it this way umpteen times, still great but didn't seem a particularly inspired reading)
Jamaica Say You Will***
The Pretender***
Rock Me on the Water*** (like Jamaica, I think we were all telepathically asking for this one including Chavonne who asked for it!)
Running on Empty***

80's
I Am A Patriot (medley with The Isley Brothers - It's Your Thing) That's a funny line "I can't tell you who to Barack it to"! Being the very last encore, it seemed kind of an odd if cheeky way to ring the closing bell to me. There might have been another jammy thing they added - personally, thought it was a bit anticlimactic not to end with one of JB's own like the Load-Out (although Stay of course, is a cover as well, so maybe just wasn't the night for that classic one-two punch!)
Lives in the Balance*
Tender is the Night*

90's
Barricades of Heaven*
I'll Do Anything
I'm Alive
MIles Away
Too Many Angels*

2000's
About My Imagination
Drums of War
Going Down to Cuba*
Just Say Yeah*
The Naked Ride Home
Off of Wonderland*
Time the Conqueror*

PS
A very well-written recent review I googled:
Late for the Sky
www.allaboutjazz.com/php/news.php?id=39143

PPS
The JB merchandise was priced extremely reasonably with the band members CD's priced at only $5 and a BEAUTIFUL tour program for only FIVE bucks as well!

I was amazed when after watching the movie Starman for the first time the night before and contemplating the line "Shall I tell you what I find so beautiful about you? You are at your very best when things are worst" that Jackson included this very quotation in his contemplative program essay! Talk about your synchronicities.

Anyway, if you haven't gotten one, I recommend everybody purchase this very essential tour souvenir with huge beautiful photographs of the band and Jackson's March 2009 essay about the Time the Conqueror tour.

Submitted by: kenny@kennywoods.com (Kenny)

---

GENERAL FAN COMMENTS: Tickets Available:

Hi Russ,

Could you please post this to the Fan Letters page?

Thanks, and hope all is well!

Ticket Available
Single ticket available for Jackson Browne's show in Prospect Park, Brooklyn on July 21. The seat is in the Right Center section, Row P, Seat 206. Selling for face value plus Ticketmaster fees - $90.

Please email if interested or with any questions (dls178@hotmail.com).

Submitted by: dls178@hotmail.com (Dana)

---

CONCERT REVIEW: July 13 at Ives Concert Park in Danbury, CT

Here is a review from the Hartford Courant written by Thomas Kintner on July 15:
"Jackson Browne Pleases With Easygoing Flair"
www.courant.com/entertainment/music-reviews/hc-jacksonbrownerev.artjul15,0,3499168.story

Submitted by: Your Webmaster

---

GENERAL FAN COMMENTS:

Russ,

Found this great review of The Greatest Album from the 70's , "Late For The Sky ", and wanted to share it with others.....

www.allaboutjazz.com/php/news.php?id=39143

PS, Have 6th row tickets to Cincinnati.

Submitted by: marklambert77@yahoo.com (Mark)

---

GENERAL FAN COMMENTS:

Okay...............

So, it was 1978 (I think) in Calavaras County, California at Angels Camp. Just came from Minnesota the year before and I had my 1964 Dodge Dart loaded with everything I owned. Just wanted to travel and my first stop from Lake Tahoe was the Jackson Browne concert at Angels Camp. My puppy and I arrived for the concert and I went in and left my puppy at my car with plenty of water, food and shade. Loved the concert. Excited to take off for the west coast all the way up to Canada. Just me and my dog.

Well, after the concert I came out and couldn't find my car. Cops were pretty sure I was just wasted. An hour or so later, when the parking area was pretty much cleared out; still no car.....worse yet, no dog and all my earthy possessions gone. A dream of travel, time in the beauty of our Creator.............gone.

Anyway, got a crashed car back months later with no dog. Went back to Minnesota. Couldn't handle it and came back to California. Made a life. Had a family. Blessed. Trial to be sure.

All that to say, I still love the music!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thank you all so much,

Submitted by: marypostiff@yahoo.com (Mary)

---

GENERAL FAN COMMENTS: Tickets Available

Hi Russ, I love the site. Could you please post this to the Fan Letters page?

Two tickets available for Jackson Browne's show in Saratoga Springs on July 24. The seats are in the Center, section 8, Row HH, Seats 26 & 27. Selling for face value plus fees - $159. I will be in the main parking lot by 6pm.

Please email if interested or with any questions (ekdauben@yahoo.com).

Submitted by: kurt.daubenschmidt@navilyst.com

---

CONCERT REVIEW: July 16 at Meadowbrook in Gilford, NH

Hi, i want to let you know i think his concert in nh 7/16/09 was the best I have ever been to. He played Fountain Of Sorrow. That was a special song from a friend of mine that died at a young age. Her favorite. Her and I have always seen jackson in Maine. I felt like she was there with me. He played his heart out. He is the best I have been going to see him since early 80's... Thanks so much....

Submitted by: memeand2@yahoo.com (Joyce G.)

---

CONCERT REVIEW: July 16 at Meadowbrook in Gilford, NH

Hi Russ,

As always, thanks for keeping up the great website.

Last night, Jackson and his band played at the Meadowbrook US Cellular Pavillion in Gilford, New Hampshire. This is the second time I have seen him in that venue, (the last being several years ago when he toured with Steve Earle and Keb Mo), and it has improved substantially since then. They have also recently "gone green" and were celebrating their second annual, "Greenapalooza."

Last night's show was one of his best, combining the best of both worlds between full band and solo acoustic. Unlike the show in Boston last September for the start of the Time the Conquerer Tour, last night Jackson at times departed from the set-list and seemed to play what he felt like, much like the solo acoustic evenings. He also talked to the audience more than he did in Boston. We were treated to some older songs that I have not heard live in a very long time, including: Jamaica Say You Will, The Late Show (with slamming car door sound effect) and I'll Do Anything. For the final encore, there was a fun segue from I Am A Patriot to It's Your Thing with Alethea & Chavonne singing, "I can't tell you, who to Barack it to."

Jackson was in very good spirits and seemed genuinely happy to be there. I'm sure having the stage fueled by bio-diesel fuel "off the grid" pleased him.

The only thing that tarnished an otherwise wonderful evening were some very drunk and obnoxious people.

I hope that some of the concerts from the Time the Conquerer Tour have been recorded and that we might see a live CD someday.

Thank you Jackson for coming to New Hampshire!

Submitted by: amksamuels@comcast.net (Annie, Concord, NH)

---

CONCERT REVIEW: July 16 at Meadowbrook in Gilford, NH

Here is a review from Examiner.com written by Michael Witthaus on July 17:
"Jackson Browne does his thing at Meadowbrook"
www.examiner.com/x-7487-Manchester-Music-Examiner~y2009m7d17-Jackson-Browne-does-his-thing-at-Meadowbrook

Submitted by: Your Webmaster

---

CONCERT REVIEW: July 17 at MGM Grand Theater at Foxwood in Mashantucket, CT

I was in Foxwoods for the July 17th Jackson Browne concert. Being my first time at the casino I was impressed with the layout. I want to mention that I found the employees to be pleasant and friendly. In the theatre, an attendant showed me to my seat which was closer to JB than previous concerts. I had to catch a bus back home. I was hoping the concert would start on time. The concert started late so I knew I would miss a few songs. (The concert didn't start on time because alot of people came in late) When the concert did start, JB came out alone smiling. What a sight! The shirt looked nice on him. A different look.

Boulevard was the 1st song, the rest may not be an accurate recollection.
The Barricates of Heaven
Just Say Yeah
Time the Conqueror

The crowd went wild for these three songs
Fountain of Sorrow, Doctor my eyes/My imagination
and the Pretender

Going Down to Cuba
Off of Wonderland
Giving that Heaven away (about giving that Heaven away)

JB said he brought back one song because his younger son had requested it. "Lives in the Balance" Also, the couple that sat next to me held hands for 1 song "Sky Blue and Black. The moment was touching. The people were more reserved than previous concerts. When JB had introduced his band members I did clap and exhibit more excitement than some and when I looked over to my right, I had the attention of the security guard. Alethea and Chavonne did an excellent job with their vocals on The Pretender and a few other songs that I just had to stand up and show appreciation for them & all in the band. Mark's solo moments on the guitar were also a special treat. Everyone in the Band did an excellent job and was very entertaining. Jeff on the keyboard and Mauricio on drums. Running on Empty was the last song I heard.

I dashed through the casino to get on a bus that was an hour late (I could have stayed a little bit longer). When the bus did arrive, the trip was uneventful until the last few seconds. I could see the sign for the terminal but the bus driver took a wrong turn and kept us on the bus for another 15 to 20 minutes. One passenger received a cell phone call and he started speaking/yelling in another language. I understood two words only, second and turnpike which he keep repeating. I found the whole bus event funny because I was still glowing from the Jackson Browne's concert.

Submitted by: jbfan@tompetty.com

---

GENERAL FAN COMMENTS: Tickets Available

Hi Russ,

I have two tickets available for Jackson's 7/27/09 show @ Meadow Brook, Mi.

They are good seats in _Pavillion 2 Row K._ I paid $152.00 for the pair. I can mail these hard tickets out right away.

The concert it is located at the Meadow Brook Festival in Rochester Hills, Mi.

Please email me if you are interested.

If you would please post this, I would really appreciate it!

Thanks for the great web site, I always enjoy checking in to see what's going on with Jackson Browne.

Submitted by: debbiejonescoop@bellsouth.net(Debbie J.)

---

CONCERT REVIEW: July 17 at MGM Grand Theater at Foxwood in Mashantucket, CT

Just wanted to say that if you ever get a chance to go see him, do it. He is not simply an artist - he is an experience not to be missed. His performance at Foxwoods was nothing short of amazing. Please don't pass this opportunity by - he won't be coming around forever.

Submitted by: dsd1969@yahoo.com

---

CONCERT REVIEW: July 19 at Bank of America Pavilion in Boston, MA

Hi Russ, I attended the Boston Concert on 7/19, please put this in for me.

Jackson Browne was at the BOA Pavillion on 7/19. His special guest was Shawn Colvin. Jackson Browne and his band walked on stage looking great. The crowd was very excited to see the band. co-producer & bass player Kevin McCormick, singer and Keyboard player Jeffrey Young, Vocalist Aletha Mills and Chavonne Morris, outstanding drummer Mauricio Lewak,and guitarist Mark Goldenburg.

JB asked the audience how they were doing and there were lots of cheers. I wished to ask how he was doing "we care about you JB" (I'm sure I'm not speaking for myself)

The Band played these songs-I'm Alive, The Barricades of Heaven, I'll Do Anything, Fountain of Sorrow, Time the Conqueror, Off of Wonderland, Lives in the Balance, For a Dancer, Too Many Angels?, Doctor my Eyes/My Imagination, Going down to Cuba, Sky Blue & Black, Just Say Yeah,Running on Empty, Pretender - I AM a Patriot and The Load Out.

The band played fabulously. JB was on fire tonight - He rocked! He performed well with his singing, guitar and keyboard playing. There was excitement in the air and the crowd was alive and responded well to his selections. I enjoyed hearing the harmony shared by Aletha and Chavonne. Mark gave a few outstanding solo performance. Mauricio was great on the drums. Kevin kept it all together with playing the bass guitar. Jeffrey also has his moments. I especially liked his contribution in I Am a Patriot/Its your thing. Jb brought back Shawn Colvin to participate in that song. The put a little love in your heart part was great. There were calls from the audience for Rosie, These Days, The Load Out which he played later. I didn't hear any calls for Redneck friend. I missed Culver Moon but its nice to hear a different mix. Before the band left, JB said Thank you and something like I had a good time to night. Seeing him leave was bittersweet. I have enjoyed his music for years. I don't know if he will be in this area again so every moment that he was on stage was appreciated and I am hoping it is not the last.

JB thanks for returning to Boston - It was good to see your smiling face tonight.

ADDED LATER:

Choices - In my last post I said that Jackson Browne was on fire. He rocked. I recently saw a comment on twitter from someone who attended a recent concert. They said that he killed. He rocked. Sometimes us fans get a little carried away. So, I would like to take back the "on fire" remark, and say that his performance was amazing.

I want to briefly comment on something else. I saw some comments about the meet and greet. Maybe at some shows it could take place before the concerts start. (however, if I was there, I don't think I would be able to let go of his hand - kidding)

Submitted by: annee9722@aim.com

---

CONCERT REVIEW: July 19 at Bank of America Pavilion in Boston, MA

Jackson's concert was FANTASTIC! Shawn Colvin opened and had a great set and Jackson came out around 8:30 p.m. - playing for 2 hours. Here's the set list:

I'm Alive
Barricades of Heaven
I'll Do Anything
Fountain of Sorrow
Off of Wonderland
In the Shape of a Heart
Too Many Angels
Sky Blue and Black
Doctor My Eyes
About My Imagination
Lives in the Balance
Going Down to Cuba
Just Say Yeah
For a Dancer
The Pretender
Running on Empty
Encore
I Am a Patriot
(Shawn Colvin came out to take part in little jam session - including singing "Put a Little Love in your Heart"
Jackson left and came back to sing
The Load Out and Stay

Absolutely great night in Boston!!!! What a set list!

Submitted by: jean.mcfadden@mbcr.net

---

CONCERT REVIEW: July 21 at Prospect Park Bandshell in Brooklyn, NY

t was a rainy afternoon in Brooklyn, N.Y. for a show at Prospect Park which is a fantastic place for an outdoor concert.

I was told he practiced "Rain, rain go away" during the soundcheck, but fortunately the rain was not a factor tonight, and he did not have to play this song.

He opened with "I'm Alive" "Barricades" "I'll Do Anything" and ended the first set with "Take it Easy" which had everybody on their feet.

Played most of the songs played elsewhere during the tour, including "In The Shape of A Heart" and "Lives in The Balance".

Opened the second set with "Jamaica" into "Doctor My Eyes/About My Imagination"

Finished with "The Pretender" into "Running on Empty".

Encore
I am a Patriot
The Load Out/Stay

Did not play Boulevard, Live Nude Cabaret, For Everyman, Somebody's Baby, Giving That Heaven Away, Culver Moon or These Days.

Jackson seemed to enjoy the park and the crowd and the concert raised funds to subsidize local shows at this venue. As always, Jackson put on a great show in a new venue and will not be forgotten any time soon. People I went to the show with asked why he didn't play more upbeat songs during the first set. Tough to tell them his best stuff is about love, lost love and death, but he pours his heart into these songs. and his voice and enthusiasm couldn't be better.

Submitted by: petegolf99@nyc.rr.com (Pete)

---

CONCERT REVIEW: July 21 at Prospect Park Bandshell in Brooklyn, NY

Hey Russ - thanks for including my last review on your site! Did you want me to shorten the sentences into paragraphs or edit this down? K

Here's a personal thank you to Jackson Browne for delivering the goods last night at the Prospect Park Bandshell in Brooklyn, NY. Of course he totally delivered in Danbury too, but I have to say that his voice sounded particularly stunning, youthful and reflective.

I was a good boy this time and wrote down the setlist. No porta potty this time! (But who leaves half eaten sandwiches in the mens bathroom is beyond me.)

Took the F train in and spotted one fan with what seemed like a homemade shirt on the front sporting "Say a prayer for..." and on the back "the Pretender."

Though not quite the lush Ives in Danbury, Prospect Park seems to boast a bigger bandshell and its fair share of trees under overcast skies. Folding chairs were wet so I sat on my raincoat in the 5th row, right center. Had a very nice view of the whole band save Jeff who was mostly blocked by Kevin from my vantage point. A note about the venue - seemed they let anyone hang out by the front row gate throughout the show regardless of where your seat was. One precious woman was completely enraptured and absorbed in dancing and clapping to every note. (A little spectacle but you go girl).

A very light, snowy rain drizzled intermittently all night. Jackson took the stage very shortly after 7:30 with a violet, floral shirt and medium blue jeans. Guess he's into a tropical theme for the summer! (Going down to Cuba?)

No Tender or Rock Me but check out the gems that made it out tonight...

1 I'm Alive

Although last time I was bummed about the lowered notes in the chorus, this time it didn't really phase me. Jackson audibled the setlist (from Tender is the Night) and opened up by telling us he's alive, and his voice really showed it! This song indeed works way better as an opener than somewhere in the middle. Good executive decision Jackson! While I love the rare Tender, I'm Alive really packed a punch.

Mr. Browne seemed to be infatuated with the word "Brooklyn," saying it sort of tongue-in-cheek and likening it to the Santa Monica of New York to the cheers from the crowd.

2 Barricades of Heaven

I believe this ended with a fade out in Danbury - this time on the minor chord. Jackson's acoustic guitar leads sparkle.

3 I'll Do Anything

Strong 90's trio. Glad we were spared Miles Away as this is the stronger of the pair. Plus I like when Jackson sings about angels.

4 Fountain of Sorrow

Very inspired version. Chavonne and Alethea really shine on those oo's and ah's. Afterward, Jackson got tongue tied when introducing Mauricio. Chuckled and decided that his name should be "Morey" as they say in Brooklyn.

5 Time the Conqueror

Whereas this masterpiece fades out on the record, the live version ends on a couple of interesting chord changes. Nice. Still don't like the ridiculous amount of slide playing toward the end, it just sounds sloppy, but a minor qualm. And for a minor digression, really hope this one makes Solo Acoustic Vol. 3 or 4 or 5 or 6 or...

6 Off of Wonderland

Jackson getting very reflective - he laughed as he said the song's not about HIS sixties but THE sixties. Talked a bit about the impact of the 60's upon today. This song immediately jumped out at me as being the most Beatlesque thing JB has ever done, which is cool, and the "waiting here for everyman" line is riveting.

Right around here someone yelled out something and Jackson tried to make it out: "Don't let the crazy...something. That's all I can hear." That's all I could hear too.

I think people were a bit more inebriated at this show than the relatively conservative New Englanders.

7 In the Shape of a Heart

Is this a tour debut? I applaud Jackson and co. for debuting new old songs - even if JB majorly goofed on one of the opening guitar chords and some of the words - he's so gracious about it when he goofs.

When the violet light shone upon his profile, I could swear I was looking at a 30 year old JB.

Jeff's piano playing is always something fine, but the piano-bell sound is awfully precious.

8 Too Many Angels

A masterpiece as always. Mark again showing off his mystical Middle Eastern guitar chops. C & A singing angelic harmonies - "voices sing of day / through the flood of tears."

9 The Naked Ride Home

Not again! But I respect that some people dig this tune (from the hate mail I've been getting, LOL), and again Manny Alvarez the guitar tech had a blast jamming with the band on electric guitar.

(Believe it or not, I actually had to use one earplug in my right ear for loud songs like this one because I was seated in right center directly in front of the speakers. Thank goodness that spared me a huge earache!)

Jackson introduced the next song as one he doesn't play a lot, said something about 25 or 30 years (not sure what that meant, because he's certainly played it more recently than that) and that he co-wrote it with Glenn Frey.

10 Take It Easy

Yes, that's right. The band played TAKE IT EASY. You'd think that would be a staple as opposed to the relatively rare gem it's become, for it got the crowd dancing and prancing, shaking and quaking like nothing else save the finale. Arranged a la the Eagles with C & A quite adeptly singing the harmonies.

-intermission-

11 Jamaica Say You Will

First song off first record. Thanks Jackson!

12 Doctor My Eyes

First hit off first record. Crowd roars! Kevin plays that classic bass line on the chorus.

13 About My Imagination

Crowd really roars on C & A's ending solos - with their vocal prowess, they deserve it! (Noticed a little plexiglass looking wall between the girls and the drums - probably so Fritz doesn't blow their ears out!)

14 Lives in the Balance

This seemed to be the C & A section of the show as again their vocals are spotlighted on the new 911 verse - they do a tremendous job. I love the part that morphs into the "wicked ways" song. Kudos again to Mark's quarter tones on the strings. (If you're wondering about sitting on cornerstones and counting the time in quartertones, well Middle Eastern / Indian instruments are particularly good for that!) Fritz does the acoustic Latin percussion again on that sexy box drum.

15 Going Down to Cuba

Introduced as a "love song." He said that twice. Someone made the obnoxious, seems-like-there's-one-in-every-show request for Rosie. Jackson chuckled as I guffawed. It was pretty much the Yosemite Sam request for Rosie.

Cuba was also preceded by a fairly length, as far as JB's relatively sparse stage patter goes, talk about how most US citizens can't travel to Cuba yet. JB stopped short from explaining why he and his band could go, but I think he's mentioned in other places about claiming religious reasons though that was pretty far from the truth.

A blonde haired woman danced across the front row blowing a kiss to Jackson - though I don't think he was looking. Fit the mood of this song perfectly.

Jeff's piano on this song is life enhancing.

16 Just Say Yeah

Another love song - for his girlfriend. Strong and passionate. I'm learning not to cringe on the hold you, mold you lyrics - not because they're necessarily bad - this is sorta the Somebody's Baby of Time the Conqueror to me. It's just that hold you, mold you isn't what I've come to expect of Jackson Browne so it's a bit jarring to my anticipation.

There's a part of me that wishes this groovy, very very catchy, riffy song had a more profound instead of nursery rhyme like lyric (I can see the hate mail now), but I'll let that go for now. Yet I still love the darn song, so gimme a break.

And now the holy 70's quadrumvirate of profundity...

17 The Late Show

18 For a Dancer

19 The Pretender

20 Running on Empty (Sounded particularly strong - wonder if the settlement with McCain had any effect! He didn't mention it.)

I repeat: they played The Late Show. The guy two seats next to me sputtered out, "Jesus!"

My fandom is now complete. On to studying old Dan Fogelberg records.

"I'm so tired of all this circling and all these glimpses of the end"

How perfect is this song and how appropriate is the lyric.

OK, I couldn't help but call home during For a Dancer, for my mom, so she could hear it over the cell.

-encore-

21 I Am a Patriot / It's Your Thing

Really good long jam on IYT. Jackson sang that "I can't tell you who to Barack it too" line.

So usually this is the end right?

Well the man of the hour was having a particularly good show so we were treated to:

-a second encore-

22 The Load Out / Stay

Yay!

Except for the two drunk barbies who insisted on singing at the top of their lungs, poison of choice in hand, and quite off-key I might add. Yeah, yeah, yeah I know it's the last song and it's a live concert and I can live a little.

But must the inebriated insist on singing EVERY word of THE LOAD OUT? Stay would be forgivable, but singing along every word of The Load Out is unforgivable! (As was the case on For A Dancer...hello people!) Ditto Sherman?

Like John Denver used to say, please limit yourself to the chorus folks!

(Well, until the 90's when he opened it up to the verses).

Jackson specifically wanted the audience to sing along on the Bruce Springsteen ending to Stay.

And we all wanted to sing along.

Because we all wanted him to stay.

Just a little bit longer.

PS Yeah, I know corny ending. Gimme a break it's 2:46 am so I went for the cliche.

Submitted by: kenny@kennywoods.com (K)

---

GENERAL FAN COMMENTS:

Hi Russ,

Thank you very much for maintaining a great site for Jackson's fans!

The other day, I saw this news. I am happy for Jackson and all other musicians. I hope more people will now remember to respect the rights of all writers!

"Jackson Browne Wins Apology From McCain & Republicans"
www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/07/21/jackson-browne-wins-apolo_n_241880.html

All the best,

Submitted by: elmontegrande@gmail.com (Inéz)

Webmaster's Reply:

There were quite a lot of stories about the settlement of the law suit. Some additional links to worthwhile articles about the settlement are:

"Browne, McCain campaign settle suit over use of music" from CNN's Jeff Simon:
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/07/21/browne-mccain-campaign-settle-suit-over-use-of-music/

"Jackson Browne, Republicans Settle Copyright Case" from Billboard:
www.billboard.com/bbcom/news/jackson-browne-republicans-settle-copyright-1003995650.story#/bbcom/news/jackson-browne-republicans-settle-copyright-1003995650.story

"Jackson Browne wins legal fight; Republican party apologise to singer":
www.clashmusic.com/news/jackson-browne-win-legal-fight

"Jackson Browne's Suit Against Republicans Not Long Running (on Empty or Otherwise)":
www.law.com/jsp/tal/digestTAL.jsp?id=1202432421788&Jackson_Brownes_Suit_Against_Republicans_Not_Long_Running_on_Empty_or_Otherwise_

Russ

Webmaster's Reply:

There is no commercial DVD of the Soundstage show for sale at this time (at least, not that I'm aware of), but the show will be repeated on local PBS stations in the coming months. Check your local listings.

I personally would love to see a 2-DVD set released, where one DVD is the new Soundstage show from this yaer and the second DVD is Jackson's Soundstage show from 1976. Probably just wishful thinking...

Russ

Webmaster's Reply:

For anyone who does have a sound system that can truly play DVD-Audio disks in 5.1, the DVD-Audio version of Running On Empty is really worth tracking down. Amazingly great sound. (If you want to play the high resolution DVD-Audio surround mixes, you need both a player that is compatible with the DVD-Audio format and a receiver that can accept the HDMI cable connection. Otherwise you'll end up with the lower quality, compressed DTS mix. Personally, I don't have such a system and have to visit select audiophile friends who do have fancy sound systems in order to play it... but it's worth it.)

Russ