Metheny jams with good vibe, experience in A2

Experienced listeners know good music when they hear it. This past Wednesday night, The Michigan Theater audience was full of those "experienced" music listeners. They knew what they were there for. The few inexperienced people who came waited anxiously, not knowing what to expect. It all happened so suddenly, when Pat Metheny made his entrance. No words were spoken. Only one of five guitars rested on a stand, waiting to help Metheny create the magic with which all his longtime followers are familiar.

REVIEW
	Pat Metheny Group Nov. 12, 1997 Michigan Theater

For the unprepared, there was no time to anticipate what was to come. Metheny commenced the show with a guitar solo, displaying that he definitely can hold his own without the talents of his surrounding cast. The solo led to an energetic performance of "Have You Heard" from the '93 release, "The Road To You."

The tone was set, as The Pat Metheny Group controlled the audience right from the start. There was a response by the crowd to everything done on stage. Some just sat motionless, hypnotized by the talents of the seven individuals creating a chemistry like no other. Others were inspired to jam along, swaying their heads while tapping open palms on already bouncing knees.

The Group continued, not missing a beat with "A Story Within The Story," from its new release, "Imaginary Day." This song was definitely an early illustration of what the night would later bring. Every note mirrored the sound of the studio-enginee

The Pat Metheny Group brought an inspirational performance to the Michigan Theater last week.

red version, showing that these guys don't need to hide behind fancy technology to deliver a superior sound. Breaking into "Follow Me," the Group gave the audience yet another taste of what the new release has to offer. This number was also aided by an intense light show that enhanced the group's stage presence. The use of a real railroad crossing sign (flashing red lights and all) made the moment even more exciting.

Metheny and company decided to slow the pace a tad, soothing the audience with their rendition of "My Funny Valentine." This song added the use of blue lighting, creating a mellow atmosphere. Viewing this song's performance gave more support to the claim that The Metheny Group is one of the best jazz groups out right now. The septet was able to take a music classic in "My Funny Valentine" and perform it in a way that is unique to its sound, showing not only the group's versatility, but also its creativity.

The Group went right into a crowd favorite. "First Circle," an older release that was immediately recognized, set the crowd on fire. People applauded in excitement as soon as they heard the first hand clap sound. This definitely can be targeted as the highlight of the evening, as it was the point when the crowd reached its peak of excitement.

"First Circle" closed out an intense first hour of music, with Metheny taking time to introduce the other members of the group. Metheny was set on keeping his words short and sweet, as he let the group's musical talents speak for themselves. The next hour gave the audience a chance to hear more of the musical gems that "Imaginary Day" holds captive.

He started with the title track, introducing the audience to what has been keeping him from any major tours - the Group took much more than its usual amount of time off the road and in the studio recording the new album. At this point, the Group really seemed to be enjoying the energetic Michigan Theater atmosphere. This vibe continued as the band rolled through "The Heart of the Day" and "Across the Sky." The continual lighting effects were especially prominent during the performance of "Across the Sky."

"The Roots of Coincidence" was also a crowd favorite, as it showcased Metheny, Lyle Mays and bass player, Steve Rodby, creating the aura of a heavy-metal concert, with hard guitar notes complemented by violent changes in the lighting effects. This energetic display yet again showed the versatility of the group, as it switched gears from hard rock to smooth and mellow tempos within the song. "Too Soon Tomorrow" followed, creating more of the good vibe that was present all night.

Metheny capped the show with four more songs, including an acoustic solo and a sentimental performance of "September 15th," from the album "As Falls Wichita, So Falls Wichita Falls." Metheny explained that the song and performance were dedicated to the late Bill Evan, whose writing was an instrumental part of that album. Metheny added that this is the first tour where the Group has included "September 15th" in its performances.

Throughout the 2 1/2 hours of musical genius, a few observations could be made. Each member was able to, at one point or another, display some individual talent. Vocalists Mark Ledford and Phillip Hamilton showed true singing talent, duplicating notes with CD-quality sound. Percussionist Jeff Haynes got his chance to shine along with drummer Paul Wertico, holding the crowd's attention with ease. At one point, Haynes played the bongos with his elbows, making the crowd even more excited. Mays, Metheny and Rodby each had similar spotlight opportunities, yielding similar results. The Group had no problems making transitions between songs, creating a smooth-running concert. Metheny had this concept perfected, as he shifted gears many times during the show, changing instruments and guitar effects midway through songs while keeping the Group on pace.

11-17-97