John Vanderslice was the first music I have experienced live since March of 2020.
It was magical.
I have always been a next-door fan of Mr. Vanderslice. Don't own any of his records, but have seen him live a handful of times over the years. Small-ish venues mostly and all in SF, except for a Seattle show 20+ years ago. I like his voice, his songwriting, and totally dig his recordings. It has always been in my mind that I was going to record at Tiny Telephone in San Francisco which is closed now, but maybe I will be able to record something at Tiny Telephone Oakland. Someday.
Anyways. The show took place in a beautiful backyard that overlooks Oakland. There were about 20 people there and John Vanderslice played for almost 2 hours. I knew a few of the songs, which was nice, but I think that I enjoyed the most was the energy. It was a quiet enthusiasm with really active listening.
There were no drunkies bumping into me, the music was crystal clear and I could hear every note played and sung. The interaction between the audience and JV was in the moment.
It was magical.
Totally not ready to be inside a big venue with a bunch of people, but do have some shows coming up that are outside and small (and small-ish). I don't know though John Vanderslice really brought it.
The it being a show by a natural showman, stripped down to the core sharing words and music.
John Vanderslice has set the bar really high. Thank you.
Below is the view, JV playing, and the wallpaper in the bathroom of the house.
