Jackson Browne 8/10- Fox Theater St. Louis

I had wanted to see Jackson Browne for a long time, so it was nice to finally get the chance. The big letdown was that he did not play the epic closer "The Load Out/Stay". When I noticed it was absent from set lists of previous shows. I decided to take evasive maneuvers and write a not to Jackson asking him to play the song. I passed it to his security right in front of the stage and he said he would pass it along. If he did, Jackson didn't play it. However the rest of the show was enjoyable.

The concert started with an opening set that was all acoustic, mostly featuring the talented David Lindley. The dude can play string instruments you have never heard of or seen before. Jackson accompanied on accoustic guitar. The highlight of the opening set was a haunting rendition of Springsteen's "Brothers Under The Bridge" with Lindley on Vocal and steel guitar. After 2 Browne staples Jackson left the stage and let Lindley play a few on his own. As far as I could see looking back this was the first time on the tour this was done. When David finished the lights came on.

After intermission the band came on with Lindley seated in the back, next to 2 full racks of string instruments. Jackson Browne must be ageless because his look and his voice have not changed a bit. He played a mix of older and newer songs, with the highlights being The Pretender, Doctor My Eyes, Fountain Of Sorrow and I'm Alive. As he closed out it was rather humorous to see a group of 45+ women dancing in the aisles to Runnin' On Empty at the end of the show. The poor Fox security people, obviously used to tamer crowds, were unable to handle the onslaught. I turned to my guest and mentioned that I would have handled it better. You've gotta jump in there and pull em out! Anyway, Jackson came back out for a 2 song encore, closing out with Little Steven's "I Am Patriot".

Overall, it was a treat to see Jackson live, finally. His voice was pure and the songs sounded good. It broke my heart that I didn't get to hear those all familiar first few notes of "The Load Out" but I guess I will forgive him for that. However, Lindley really stole the show with his crazy multi-instrumental ability. I could have listened to him all night. Of course the only downside of the whole night were Jackson Browne's liberal cronies in the lobby trying to drum up support for all number of socialist and democratic party causes. I love the music Jackson, but keep the politics at home!

Here is a link to the complete set list: Set List

Peace for now.

Mr. JoeLabs