Review: The Moody Blues at Ryman Auditorium 4/18/2008

I just saw a great concert. Once again, the historic Ryman Auditorium seemed to bring out the best in the performers. If the Moody Blues don't put this performance out commercially they'll be depriving their fans of a great listening experience. This was one for the ages.

I hadn't seen the Moody Blues since the 70's, so I wasn't certain what to expect. There are three original members still touring, guitarist Justin Hayward, bassist John Locke, and drummer Graeme Edge. Ray Thomas had retired in 2003 but has been replaced by Norda Mullen on flute, and she does a fine job. And the boys can still sing and rock out. From the opener (Lovely To See You) to the finale (Ride My See Saw) it was apparent that these guys can still perform.

What occurred on this night was the rare scenario where both the band and the audience were so into the music (and the venue) that they were feeding off each other. The band was smiling and moving around a lot, and the audience was on their feet for most of the second half, stomping and clapping for more. Combine that with the impeccable sound quality of the Ryman and you've got yourself a winner. At different points I found myself rocking, reminiscing, deeply moved, peaceful, happy. Justin Hayward hinted about the band's excitement at playing the Ryman, noting all the pictures of artists backstage who performed here, especially the Everly Brothers, whom he said were a big influence on many British Invasion rockers. He pondered about all the great artists who "walked these boards" during the span of The Moody Blues' 40 + year career.

None of their live recordings seem to capture the energy that was generated at the Ryman. Of course, it also helps that there really isn't a bad seat there either, so it was great visually too. The set list included such favorites as Tuesday Afternoon, a rocking Other Side of Life, a gentle Are You Sitting Comfortably, an amazing Never Comes the Day, a poignant Isn't Life Strange, a moving and powerful Nights In White Satin, and an energetic Question. I found Higher and Higher interesting in that Graeme was so into it, coming out from behind the drums to hop around, dance a jig, and shake his butt in joyous abandon. No doubt that he was having a blast. The one song I felt was a bit weak was I'm Just a Singer in a Rock n Roll Band. One song I didn't hear that would have been nice was Legend of a Mind. Oh well, can't have everything. It's just the 60's in me.

You know it's a good show when everyone's buzzing outside during the break. Everyone was talking about what they liked best, are they better now than in the 70's, where they saw The Moody Blues last time around, etc. Then the second half was even better than the first, so the buzz continued as people were walking out the door. It was a great night for me and apparently the rest of the crowd. Moody Blues fans, wish you were all here. It was that special.