The BoDeans with Bonnie Finken and the Collective
Simon Estes Amphitheater, May 27
Is there anything better than listening to live music on an early summer evening by the river? Yes, when that music is played by the BoDeans. Originally out of Milwaukee and formed in the mid 1980s, the BoDeans played to a full house of fans downtown at Simon Estes on Thursday night as part of the Nitefall on the River series.
Local act, Bonnie Finken and the Collective, opened the show. Full of energy, even on this warm summer night, Finken danced across the stage and entertained the crowd with upbeat, mostly original songs. Finken and the Collective undoubtedly captured some new fans with the music, her powerful voice and her energy.
While the BoDeans are touring to support their newest CD, “Mr. Sad Clown,” their set list was full of old favorites and crowd-pleasers as well as some new songs. Classic BoDeans songs such as “Idaho,” “Naked” and “Fadeaway” joined work from the new CD — “Shine,” “Stay,” and “Say Goodbye.” They are the epitome of roots-rock music — heartfelt, intelligent and easy to enjoy (and dance to). Backed with a three-piece band, founding members Kurt Neumann and Sam Llanas sounded especially good. After 25 plus years together, the two share amazing harmonies, powerful guitar work and thoughtful song-writing duties. Neumann and Llanas looked like they still enjoy playing the music and each other. Much of the crowd sang along and danced under the moonlight throughout the BoDeans’ 18-song set and left the amphitheater with smiles on their faces. CV — Karen Ericson
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Deftones at People’s Court Photo by Jared Curtis |
Deftones at People’s Court Photo by Jared Curtis |
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The BoDeans at Simon Estes Amphitheater Photo by Karen Ericson |
Bonne Finken and the Collective at Simon Estes Amphitheater Photo by Karen Ericson |
