Having just celebrated his 80th birthday the previous day. Al Stewart brought his farewell tour to the Vogel Theatre in Red Bank New Jersey on September 6. He was backed by the Chicago band The Empty Pockets.
I have never seen Mr. Stewart and was incredibly grateful I was able to see him before he stops touring.
I know the music would be good, but he sounded better than I had imagined he would, given the fact that he was fighting a summer cold.
His stories between songs were very funny, touching and showcased his knowledge of history, which are a trademark of his music.
The Empty Pockets opened the show with a short set and provided great backing for Mr. Stewarts songs. Their set included Make it Through, Mrs. Sacramento, Everybody Knows You When You're Down & Out and Outside Spectrum.
Selfishly, I hope he decides to make this farewell tour go on for years.
Happy Birthday!!!!
Here is the setlist.
You Should Have Listened To Al
Antarctica
The Palace of Versailles
Time Passages
On the Border
Midas Shadow
Broadway Hotel
The Dark and the Rolling Sea
Joe the Georgian
One Stage Before
Year of the Cat
Love Minus Zero/No Limit (Bob Dylan cover)
