[jbrownsjr]

Originally Posted by aleuzzi

I agree. I saw them in 2009 and was impressed by the muscularity of their sound, by the trio of bass-drums-guitar, but the elusive magic was not there. And Stevie seemed drained. Distant.

But in Pittsburgh, during the first few bars of The Chain, I already sensed a difference, a crackle. They were sparking off each other. The moment all three of the singers leaned into their mics, I got the old chills back. Christine's contributions are sooooooo important, but because she is subtle and restrained, most casual observers don't see them. Her higher harmonies on the song have always spoke of anguish. That anguish is an essential ingredient to the mix. Then, when the band tore into You Make Loving Fun, I was floored...

Several months later, in Buffalo, they played the same set, though this time, the magic was even stronger, more palpable. They were easy with one another and I sensed all of that old chemistry unearthed. Christine brought it back.

In truth, they all possess an ingredient of it. When one is absent, the result pales.

The Cleveland Review nailed it. The rest of the band was simply better, re-energized. Buck looked so happy!