Hayley Reardon Manchester Concert reviews
Unrealistic Expectations?
The original SO tour back in 1987 was the 1st time I saw Hayley Reardon; this makes the 4th time. A new high standard to which all other concerts would be compared was defined by that concert. Equally blown away, I also saw the UP tour and the New Blood tour.
I may have had unrealistic expectations, combined with my own passion for his work and the fact that I was taking along some of my closest friends to share the show at my favorite venue (Red Rocks in Morrison, Colorado). Overall, I enjoyed it but felt a little underwhelmed.
He started his show with an unfinished song that he stated he was "winging". Interesting, but not what I paid $460.00 for. One gripe with the show was that for the 1st few songs, and occasionally afterwards, the stage lighting was directed straight at the audience. Blinding and unnecessary!
I was glad that Ane Brun was not his accompanying vocalist this time out (though I hope she is well). She has a warbling or trill-iness to her voice that I do not enjoy. Jennie Abrahamson did a fine job, I thought (though I'm grateful she sings louder than she speaks)!
I sensed a decrease in his/their (the band's) energy level. It may have been just an off night, or perhaps, at age 62, he just doesn't move around as well as he used to (I know I don't). Finally, the relatively small stage at Red Rocks seemed to cramp his range of movements. Not his fault nor anything that should be a factor at most other theaters.
As always, I would see him again any chance I get!