As a fan of Chris Isaak for many years, any opportunity to see him in concert is a joy, especially since he only tours two months out of the year and only one of those involves a swing through the Midwest. At Meadowbrook Festival in Rochester Hills, Michigan, on the Oakland University campus, the experience was especially a delight. This is a charming venue, an outdoor amphitheater nestled in rolling hills and mature trees, seeming far away from civilization, even though it’s pretty close to the heart of a bustling suburb.
I have an impartial slant though with it comes to Meadowbrook. Considering it’s located in my hometown, I spent many occasions during my upbringing there, including my high school graduation ceremony, and those of my siblings and friends as well. This is the second time I saw Chris Isaak there; he seems in the last few years to make his visit to Meadowbrook an annual event. Last year he didn’t make it, much to my disappointment, since he came earlier in the year to nearby DTE with Stevie Nicks. I’ve seen concerts at DTE and they aren’t as personal and intimate, so I passed.
The laid back yet large crowd (a near sell out) added to the pleasant atmosphere, as all came to enjoy a beautiful summer evening of assured entertainment. We sat in the lawn section this year, where others came armed with their picnic baskets filled with cheese and crackers, large blankets, and beach chairs. The only exception to the quiet atmosphere was the group of three women next to us, two in their 50s and a blue haired grandma, complete with thin wire glasses and gabardine leisure outfit. They came to party, and their antics proved to be just as entertaining as the concert.
The opening act, James Hunter, promptly came on at 8 p.m. He came out with a band, which beat the opening act the last time, a single person with an acoustic guitar. They put on a rousing classic R & B revival with a nice mix of covers and originals. It was good to see someone staying true to this genre of music, keeping the spirits of acts like Sam Cooke and Wilson Pickett alive and well. The crowd seemed to be receptive and into the music, although they also cheered when he said they were playing the last song after a 35-minute set.
At 9 p.m., right on schedule, Chris Isaak and Silvertone went on. These guys have been together for a very long time, and their camaraderie on the stage was as much of a treat as the music. With Rowland Salley on bass, Kenney Dale Johnson on drums, and Hershel Yatovitz on guitar, they opened with an energetic rendition of “Lonely With A Broken Heart”, easily getting the crowd going. I especially noticed the group next to us, all with their giant $8 beers in hand, swaying back and forth from the very first note.
Article comments
1 - Kari
I saw Chris Isaak a few years ago at Meadowbrook and it remains one of my most memorable concert experiences! He is the most amazing live performer and is also so giving to his fans. After the show he headed to the merchandise hut (it was very shed-like, do they still use that?) and signed autographs for everyone standing in line. I have a very cute picture of him hamming it up for the camera. Thank you for the review that reminded me how much I love this man! Can't wait for a new album!
2 - Alice Jester
Kari - Yes, he did the same thing after the show this year, autographs at the merchandise hut, which bummed me out because we were close to the tent and could have gotten a great place in line, but my brother was driving and wanted to get out of there. I promised myself I'd wait in line next show. It's good to know he sticks around for everyone.
I'm thrilled to hear you got to experience one of his shows there. He is very generous to his fans. Thanks for sharing your experience!