The Metal Files

Right after the Ragnarokkr Metal Apocalypse experience came another show that I had gotten tickets for.  Michael McDonald (MM).  I’m a huge fan of his work with the Doobie Brothers (who I had seen a few months earlier), 70s/80s solo efforts, Steely Dan and Christopher Cross.  He’s a talented guy and although the tickets were very expensive, I had to go.

I ended up getting front row center mezzanine at The Paramount Theatre.  It’s an old venue that really needs to upgrade its seats to fit modern day humans.  Even sitting front row, my knees were against the barricade.  No fun.

MM hits the stage and openes with 2 Doobie Brothers songs, Here to Love You and It Keeps You Runnin’.  His voice sounded great and his backing band, of course, was incredible.  He played most of the songs you’d expect and I was of course happy to hear I Keep Forgettin’, You Belong to Me and What a Fool Believes.  Three great songs.

Most of his backing band is based out of Nashville and the bassplayer, Tommy Simms, was the guy who wrote the Clapton hit Change the World.  He sang most of it that night.

One of the best parts of the night was during the encore when Christopher Cross came out on stage and did Ride Like the Wind with MM in the backing vocal spot.  It was awesome and gave me chills seeing it performed live.  One of my all time favorite songs.  Cross sounded great and played a killer guitar solo.  Cross also handled a verse of Takin’ It To the Streets.

Great show but doubtful I’d spent that kind of money to see Michael again.