Concert Review |
Seeing Bobby McFerrin perform at Kirkland Performance Center is like having this invincible Pied Piper of song all to yourself. And a few hundred friends.
McFerrin can fill the Paramount Theatre or Benaroya Hall with fans of his unique vocalizing. But the Kirkland Performance Center, a valued Eastside cultural hub offering shows by local and national artists throughout the year, is celebrating its 10th anniversary.
And what could be more festive than an intimate evening with the man of a thousand voices singing perfectly loud? And soft?
Pinning back his mop of graying dreadlocks, and pouring his heart and slender frame into every tune, McFerrin on Friday night regaled his rapt audience with a cappella renditions of beloved songs (Charlie Chaplin's "Smile," the Beatles' "From Me to You"), classical airs (a Bach partita overlaid with "Ave Maria"), and improvised numbers in Brazilian, bluesy and African modes.
McFerrin is still his own combo. Using chest-slaps or mouth clicks for percussion, he somehow keeps a bass line, a tenor melody and baritone embellishments going all at once, with masterful use of his microphone and seamless octave leaping.
But the joy of a McFerrin concert is also in becoming part of his global chorus. With a little instruction, and a few hand gestures, he weaves every willing voice into his sonic tapestry.
And he always delights in getting fans onstage to jam with him. Friday night at KPC, an excited teen dancer improvised to his music. And a brave young singer swung through "Fly Me to the Moon," to accompanied by McFerrin's vocals and patrons' fingersnaps.
McFerrin performs again Saturday at KPC. On Sunday the center extends the party with a day of free performances (see box for details).
Misha Berson: mberson@seattletimes.com
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