3. Levon (Elton John - Live In Foxborough: 9/6/1993)

Описание: After a string of uploads that included the European 1986 Tour and its respective TierMaker episode, it’s time to move to the 90s decade once again with Foxborough 1993 making its debut on this channel. This excellent broadcast source features Elton John’s complete set of 10 songs and the crisp mix allows the entire band to be heard clearly without issues. Speaking of the band, this set does not feature Mark Taylor as the second keyboard player or the backing singer trio of Mortonette Jenkins, Marlena Jeter, and Natalie Jackson as they were dismissed once the 1992-1993 Tour ended. Elton John was one of the many performers at Foxboro Stadium as part of the “Walden Woods Project” that was conceived by Don Henley. This charity concert was to help raise money to pay off loans in relation to land purchases near Walden Pond (to preserve the woodlands).

The stripped-down band sound fantastic at this show as there is an energetic edge to the playing (which is definitely helped by the quality) with Charlie Morgan in particular standing out with his respective instrumental prowess. This show is an example of the “less is more” concept being applied as only the most necessary people are on stage with Elton - and the results are more than satisfying. Elton’s in great voice at this event and he sings very confidently and aggressively throughout the 53-minute set. He also is clearly enjoying the event as his piano playing (especially the solos) is very lively and the uptempo numbers are full of shining moments. Now… time to talk about these performances…

“The Bitch Is Back” is a very spirited start to Elton’s set as Davey’s guitar work is first class and Elton’s energetic vocal performance elevates everything to the next level. “Philadelphia Freedom” has a creative introduction that is highlighted by Elton’s playing and the rhythm section sounds especially good on this rendition. Elton also goes for a couple Bb4s in the outroduction section and mixes them in with various conservative vocal melodies. “Levon” has excellent vocals with Elton going for album phrasing in the first pre-chorus and singing with an assertive edge during the choruses and the outroduction section. The piano solo is also full of energy and Charlie’s drumming is another highlight of the performance. “Simple Life” highlights the prowess of Bob Birch’s bass playing, Charlie’s fantastic drumming, and a vocal performance that’s full of overdriven moments. “The One” features Guy Babylon’s wunderbar keyboard playing and Davey’s playing comes through brilliantly on the broadcast. “The Last Song” has some intonation issues from Elton early on, but things get settled in by the first chorus and the performance really takes off during the second verse. “Take Me To The Pilot” highlights a gutsy Elton who pushes his voice throughout the performance and brings out some overdriven growl in places. “I Don’t Wanna Go On With You Like That” has Elton flubbing lyrics in the last verse, but makes up for it with an energetic piano solo and an aggressive vocal performance. “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me” has Elton easing off the gas with the vocals as he brings back more of a cleaner and softer tone (in contrast to the previous couple of songs) which sounds really nice. Lastly, “Pinball Wizard” has a forceful vocal performance from Elton and Davey’s guitar has some technical issues throughout.

ENJOY!!!