For many people, Friday nights consist of the same thing. Friends, laughs, drinking, and staying out late. But for the lucky few who were able to find their way into the intimate Pantages Theater this past Friday, the night consisted of one more thing: A Legend of American Rock. At the age of 77, Crosby has seen it all and his experience in music and life shows up on stage.
Things started for Crosby in 1964 when he joined The Byrds, a classic rock band. As a member of The Byrds, Crosby helped release five albums. A highlight of this time is the writing of the hit song “Mr. Tambourine Man” which was given over to Bob Dylan. In 67 Crosby split ways after internal disputes. He then took up with Graham Nash and Stephen Stills to form Crosby, Stills and Nash. Since then, Crosby has gone on to play in several variations of the Crosby, Stills, and Nash group as well as recording solo albums.
Crosby’s set spanned his career with songs from all previous acts. Well he wasn’t joined on the stage by any members of his old bands he was accompanied by his new group: The Sky Trails Band. The band consists of members Jeff Pevar, Mai Leisz, Steve DiStanislao and Michelle Willis. Pevar, who plays guitar for the group was close to stealing the show last night. His guitar playing skills were intoxicating and jaw dropping at time. Crosby must feel the same way because much time was given to him and his guitar solos.
The band took the stage just after 8 o’clock opening with Crosby, Stills and Nash song “In My Dreams.” The band played eight songs before taking a 15 minute or so intermission. An experience at shows I’m not use to, but it worked well seeing most audience members were in need of bathroom breaks and additional drinks. The band then came back for another set playing 9 songs and then coming out for an encore which was a jamming rendition of hit Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young song: “Ohio.”
Crosby has been known for his political speeches up on stage. It’s something that got in the way of his relationships with The Byrds. Last night he warned us of our trusting in congress and the President. These politics didn’t sour or dampen the mood at all. Crosby matched his speeches well with entertaining and comical interactions with audience members, a rare thing for music legends to do. It just goes to show, in my opinion, the humbleness and kindness of David Crosby.
It’s uncertain if Crosby will return to Minnesota, but if he ever does, I strongly recommend making your way to the show.
Setlist:
- In My Dreams
- Morrison
- Naked In The Rain
- Thousand Roads
- At the Edge
- Guinnevere
- Long Time Gone
- Deja Vu
- Lee Shore
- I think I
- Homeward Through the Haze
- Delta
- What Are Their Names
- Janet
- Eight Miles High
- Wooden Ships
- Almost Cut My Hair
- Ohio
