Review by Kyle Valanne
My eighth Dylan concert and my third at the wonderful Bank of New
Hampshire Pavilion did not disappoint. Brittney Spencer was okay and
Jimmie Vaughan delivered a solid set of rocking blues.
Bob, grey hoodie in place, and band appeared on stage at roughly 9:00.
They were all business. The stage lighting is simple and elegant. The
setlist has been very consistent for the last little while. It was great
to hear "Man in the Long Black Coat". Other standouts were "I Can Tell"
which is a perfect fit for Bob, "Black Rider" which was very atmospheric
and enchanting, "When I Pant My Masterpiece" which had a definite "Puttin
on the Ritz" vibe, "Under the Red Sky" which had some beautiful harp, and
"I Shall Be Released" which also had some great harp playing and a vocal
delivery that sounded powerfully sincere and honest. Bob's harp playing
was enthusiastically received by the audience.
When the last song finished, Bob moved to the side of the keyboard and
quietly acknowledged the crowd. No band introductions, but Tony continues
to be the anchor, and the current line-up with some very recent additions
is up for the task. One bizarre moment was when some man in a bright
orange t-shirt walked up one side of the upper section yelling, "That's
not Bob Dylan!" This went on for several minutes until it just stopped.
Not sure if he was removed by security or what, but it was great to have
him silenced. I last saw Bob in Montreal in 2023 and just like that show,
it was obvious that Bob cared about his vocal delivery. His setlist
consists of songs that fit his voice. At 85 years old, we are so lucky
that he is still out there doing it. Until next time, thanks Bob!
Thanks,
Kyle Valanne
Humanities SPR
English Department
Miramichi Valley High School
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