The second night of the Kimmel Center opening weekend featured Lyle Lovett, making his Kimmel Center debut. A singer/songwriter with a sense of humor, Lyle Lovett has been immersed in the country, rock and blues music scene ever since the mid-seventies when he was writing about artists like Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kinky Friedman for his college newspaper. With his Large Band, Lovett rocked Verizon Hall with his honest, imaginative songwriting and signature muscianship.
It was a great concert, the different styles of music coming together. He has a wonderful sound and a great stage presence, a dry sense of humor which gives way to great music.
There were times during the show when I wondered how on earth this lanky, nerdy guy with the often croaky voice manages to surround himself with such a tight, smooth, classy, LARGE band ... but the answer is that he writes darn good songs. Plus, he's gracious, funny and generous on stage. Terrific concert. I too "go for penguins."