See Arlo Guthrie in concert

Arlo is one of the few musicians that I really love and I have not seen yet. 3 years ago

I did this back in ye olde 1998. Janis Ian opened, and Arlo’s (adult) children came out and sang a couple of numbers. I also remember Arlo introducing “The Motorcycle Song” as “the dumbest song that has ever been written.”

I got a nosebleed and had to run out in the middle, but other than that I think it was a pretty good show. 6 years ago

Arlo was amazing. So generous! So funny!

He did Alice’s Restaurant, a LONG song. It was like listening to a loved one tell you a favorite bedtime story…except funnier. His comments between-and sometimes during!-the songs were just great. Nice long set.

He also did a couple of his father’s songs. You know, Woody Guthrie. The guy who wrote that song from your third grade songbook: This Land Is Your Land. It was very moving to hear him sing it and to see his son, Abe, on keyboards, singing along and looking at him with love and admiration.

The photo is of Arlo Guthrie’s tour bus. One anonymous white bus. Gives me to ponder… Are the 12 semi-trucks full of gear the reason I can’t afford to see Sir Paul in concert? Or, maybe they have to charge high prices to keep the place from being mobbed and he feels he should give a good show for the price?

The fabulous Mammals apparently travel in a big multi-seat van. We saw one that looked pretty lived-in and had NY plates. They’re from Woodstock. If you ever liked the sound of a folk fiddle, check them out. Great fiddle, banjo, and a rock beat behind some classics, as well as their own well-crafted songs. 6 years ago

I keep kicking myself for not going to see people I admire when they are still alive and playing near me. We thought we’d see Sir Paul this year, but alas, the price was too high. I just can’t see forgoing a mortage payment for the pleasure of some lousey seats half way up the auditorium.

BUT! We’re going to see Arlo Gurthrie Thursday night at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center. It’s not far from home and it’s supposed to be a good venue. I used to play my brother’s copy of the Petaluma Chicken Farm album over and over. I think that’s the name of it. 6 years ago