Although the review by Vito Ingerto on TwinCitiesMedia.net was pretty spot on, I'm pretty sure he hasn't actually witnessed an entire Ike Reilly show on Thanksgiving Eve at First Avenue to really capture what it means. For the better part of 15 years I have partaken in the revelry, bad-assery, and bawdiness of Ike who Ingerto describes as "cooler than pirates and ninjas combined." I've had the pleasure to witness Ike Reilly at First Avenue, 7th Street Entry, Turf Club, Fine Line, Ice House, Varsity Theater, Bryant Lake Bowl, as well as traveling to Chicago to enjoy several appearances there. I'm qualified to write a review.
When friends ask who? I say, "You know, Ike Reilly. He's a combination of Dylan and Springsteen. It's like nothing you've ever seen." When asked why I've seen him so many times? I say, "Ike never disappoints." And once again, Thanksgiving Eve 2017 at First Avenue, did not disappoint.
Over the years each show has had a vibe of it's own, from show stopping barroom brawls to sexual experiences in the mosh pit. Reilly's music does something to your senses - like you've sold your soul to stay on the right side of heaven. Taking the stage with verve and passion, his songs were solid and the music was strong. But this show had a different feel. It took on an air of mastery. With two "new" members of the Assassination, Reilly acted the proud papa to 21 year old Max Niemann and as the student to the master when Mars Williams played his first note. Williams' blues-infused sax took Reilly's songs to another level - they soon took on a life of their own. It was as though Ike himself was hearing his songs for the first time - the crowd was mesmerized. And then there was Max - with a hockey players flow and rock n' roll stance, Max nailed guitar licks like a seasoned pro as he bantered back and forth note for note with Williams. Reilly, watching this magical moment unfold on stage - smiled. And that is what makes him even more dangerous than a pirate or a ninja. I'd say more like the devil who had just brokered a deal.
Fucking perfect!
ReplyDeleteThanks! ;)
Delete