theCLog

The Deal: Blues Traveler’s rockin’ harmonica and the jam band flu came to infect the Neighborhood Theatre and, well, it was sick.

The Good: After 20 years (this was their anniversary show), Blues Traveler showed they still have what it takes to put on a great live concert. A two-and-a-half-hour set, featuring 20 songs including a 15-minute encore, was a great way to start the next 20. Over the years, singer/harmonica player John Popper has learned to tone it down a notch. It’s not the “John Popper show” that it used to be. He shows more control and better solos. Instead of showing off his talent, he showcases it like a guitar player. The band played songs from albums new and old with some highlights being “But Anyway” and “Mulling it Over” from their debut self-titled release, “Amber Awaits,” “Mountains Win Again,” “Hook” and “Carolina Blues.” Guitarist Chan Kinchla was on top of his game and the rest of the boys got to showcase their talents as well. The encore was a blistering, 15-minute “Mountain Cry.”

The Bad: I see it all the time … it’s a concert, stop trying to talk to people on your cell phone. I didn’t go to the concert to hear you yell at your friend who may or may not also be at the concert. You can also stop taking 50 pictures of you, the band, your friends, etc. The flashes were out of control in a distracting way, although most of you left after you heard “Runaround.”

The Verdict: The first time I saw Blues Traveler was about 17 years ago, and they haven’t lost a step. They may not have radio hits, but their talents are easily visible. It’s no surprise that they’ve lasted this long.

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