Search - John Denver :: Harbor Lights Concert

Excellent concert document

The Music Man | United States | 05/17/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I had just rediscovered the music of John Denver when he died as the result of a plane crash. For a long time before then, I had considered his music "square" along with much of the rest of the world, but upon reevaluation, I found his pure sentiment and voice very compelling and clear-eyed. Having heard his wonderful "Wilderness Concert" on Sony Records, I was eager to hear this latest release, recorded the same year as the previous concert, but with a significantly different song lineup. Mr. Denver's voice grew richer with the years, and metamorphosed from the almost too-sweet clearness, gaining some roughness and character which helped him to reinterpret many of his standards, giving them needed weight. Mr. Denver is in particularly good voice the evening this was recorded, and easily connects with the small audience (about 5,000) who are appreciative but not intrusive. The song list includes songs from his early career ("Grandma's Feather Bed," "I Guess He'd Rather Be In Colorado," "Today," "Darcy Farrow,") as well as stunning later songs which were never heard by the general public: "Whispering Jesse," "Wild Montana Skies," and "For You." Also included as a bonus for fans are several songs which have not been released anyplace else: the traditional "El Paso," given a faithful reading here, a new song, the sardonic "Kissing You Goodbye" which was a swipe at the negligent Country Music Association, which had failed to embrace Mr. Denver's music, and the rare "Spanish Pipe Dream." A fine, enjoyable concert by the much-missed John Denver."

A Mid Summer Nights Dream

W. Foley | Canandaigua NY | 06/04/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a wonderful CD! This CD truly captures what it was like going to see John Denver in concert. The sound quality is exceptional, making you feel like you have a front row seat. John really does sound like he was having one of those nights when everything clicked. John did have an amazing voice, and that night it was strong and clear, with emotion and passion. The other enjoyable aspects of his concerts was his ability to intimately connect and communicate with his audience, and I believe that intimacy is warmly evident. The album includes some great live versions of songs that I never tire of hearing. But he also includes some rare gems, such as a wonderful cover of Marty Robbin's timeless classic "El Paso." The love song section is exceptionally gratifying with beautiful versions of "Shanghai Breezes," "For You," and "Annie's Song". But included here is a song that was never recorded prior to his untimely passing..."Kissing You Goodbye". This country flavored tune will really have you laughing along with the audience. The Harbor Lights Concert is a great homage to an entertainer, singer, songwriter who is surely missed. Thanks John!"

A Magical Evening

Dale | Asheville, New Caledonia | 04/28/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is an incredible concert. John had really hit his stride at this point in his life with his music. This show has a much different flavor than "The Wildlife Concert", another masterpiece which was recorded about 7 months earlier in the same year (1995). The reverb on his voice, whether it is from the sound of the expansive canopy above Boston's Harbor Lights Pavilion or whether it is an effect added at the soundboard, is at times almost haunting. It adds an entirely new dimension to songs like "I Guess He'd Rather Be In Colorado", "Today" and "Darcy Farrow", all of which are performed here with about as much finesse as one could possibly conceive. There is also tender playfulness to the show, as if John is just hanging out with a few close friends and the band is totally flowing and in sync. His love of the culture and music of the American West really shines through. This is a very touching album, sometimes wide open and full throttle ("Wild Montana Skies"), and sometimes achingly beautiful and sentimental ("For You"). "The Harbor Lights Concert" is a blast and a heartfelt conversation with the man himself all rolled into one. It is also a fitting tribute to a musical legend. A timeless and a perfect addition to any music lover's collection."