From the moment that Leonard skipped onto the stage, making light of his 74 years, he had the audience in Vienna's Konzerthaus entranced. I have attended many concerts but never in my previous experience have an audience provided a standing ovation for an artist BEFORE he had even opened the show. This was the emotional opening to last nights concert. It was testimony to the affection in which he is held by his many fans. Fans of all generations. There was a real cross-section of ages present last night. I believe this has a lot to do with the second phase of Leonard's career, following the world-wide acclaim for 1988's “I'm Your Man”.
Last night was very different from the previous time that I had seen Leonard perform – Manchester in the late 80's. That was also a great show but with fewer backing musicians and a more subdued artist. Last night Leonard performed as if it was his last concert, giving new emphasis and meaning to his words. This was a superb craftsman at the height of his powers – and clearly enjoying every minute..
The sound system was so clear that every word could be captured. The musicians were all excellent. Leonard is such a gentleman. He acknowledged every significant contribution from his tightly-knit band. He had the full complement of backing singers, who were also given the opportunity to shine. Indeed Sharon Robinson took the lead on her song “Boogie Street” and the Webb Sisters took over the vocals on “If it be your will”, after Leonard had spoken the opening words.
There were many highlights, from the pleading “Hallelujah” to the rocking “Closing Time”. Each song received its own particular treatment. The lesser known “Gypsy wife” was a special treat for me.
Leonard kept the break between encores as brief as possible in order to cram in as many songs as possible before the 11pm curfew. The show itself lasted just over 2.5 hours. I spoke to one of his entourage after the show, as he was packing up the merchandise. He told me that Leonard would have played longer if he had been allowed to continue. He had not worked with him before, but had been struck by how genuine he is as a person. He added that Leonard really enjoys performing for his fans on this sell-out tour.
As we drifted away afterwards I was left with the feeling that Leonard could have performed a different set of 24 songs from his fantastic repertoire and it would have been just as enjoyable a show. My only small gripe is that there was nothing included from “Dear Heather”, an album that grows on me the more I listen to it. “The Faith” is a particular favourite.
If you have not managed to see a show yet, please make every effort – you will not regret it. This was surely the concert of the decade – if not the century!
PS. The guy that I spoke to said that there may be one additional concert but not to divulge the location in my review, as it is not yet confirmed.
