Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating 9/10
We can all but dream of having the inscription and moniker “Legendary” attached to our name, to be remembered for bringing joy, a wealth of art perhaps, to have done something so epic that it will live past our own lifespan and be a reflection, a calling card for future generations to live up to. Rarely does that identifying mark truly expand upon the brilliant and dazzling first sense of illumination, but when it does, then you cannot but help feel awe when in the presence of such finery in the suit of a fellow human being.
To have lived and still feel the love of an audience, to know that the music you perform on what some might consider a gruelling set of dates, is still enough to make many gasp, to let them hear their own frustrations and take stock of the love they have surrounding them, that is the point of legendary and they don’t come much more profound or with a sense of beauty in their words and music than Don McLean.
For over 50 years this American Folk musician has entranced, soothed and rocked out venues, the radio, and the turntables of the world, and with aplomb, with gravitas and a true sense of honour to the listener, he looks like doing for many more years to come.
Whilst it could be argued that were many inside the Philharmonic Hall who had been waiting, almost chomping at the bit for two of the most ear catching songs of the 20th Century as they entered the venue, American Pie and Vincent, once this loyal crowd heard the first stirring notes of songs such as Guy Mitchell’s Singing The Blues, Buddy Holly’s Everyday, Jerusalem, the beauty of And I Love You So and Don William’s Tulsa Time, then the relaxed atmosphere, the enjoyment of the night spent with Don McLean and his band was evident and perfectly settled.
With songs such as Botanical Gardens, the superb cover of Roy Orbison’s Crying and You’ve Got Blue Eyes, the evening built up with precision, no story left untold, no memory too small or grandiose not to be imparted, and it was with loving guilt in the audience’s heart, that they could feel the end of the evening come round, two hours of solid introspection, of heartache and genius all rolled into one evening, and one rousing main set finale of American Pie.
Heroes are made, legends give life and depth to others, it is in the music and sheer honesty of Don McLean’s voice and performance that legendary applies. A magnificent night of hits, favourites and recital, Mr. McLean gave Liverpool the emotional response to the city’s love of music it deserved.
Ian D. Hall