The May 17 Concert - The Ethical Culture Society

I take pride in writing this as a “TOFOG virgin.” Yes, it was my first concert, and a wonderful evening it was.

Chats had gotten us nice seats in the right orchestra facing the stage. (The Dean Cochran side, for his many fans) There were six of us, and all eagerly awaited what was to come. I loved the odd venue. It was church-like, but thank God the pews had cushions!!!

The opening act was lovely – Complicated lyrics, and very personal. I wish the young woman and her accompanist-husband luck with her album soon to be released.

The stage went to black and in a bit you could see figures coming out and taking their places on the stage.

The lights came up to see the band sans Russell with huge TOFOG posters making a fitting backdrop to the Ethical Culture setting. The stage lighting throughout the evening was very dramatic.

Then Russell appeared and things started to pop. The acoustics, to this novice, seemed great. My ear drums at the end of the night can testify to that! He sang all the songs from the new album, did a bit of the Preacher (Shelley Winters!), sang a couple of songs from the old group. His voice has improved so much even from the taping of MHMH. It is husky, strong and assured. He brings life to his lyrics. It was amazing to see him right there in front of me. The immediacy of it hit me half way in to the sets - My friend up there - people swaying and dancing and “hooping ” – It was fabulous.

At one point he looked over to our side and asked, “Where’s my girl? Is my girl here?” I will treasure that question forever.

He ended the concert (after two encore sessions) with a quiet rendition of My Hand My Heart, a favorite of mine.

He did look tired, but his plate is so full these days, with “Tenderness” starting to shoot in the area on Monday.

We were privileged to be invited backstage afterwards, and he and I (After his visit with Trudie, the lovely wife of Sting) had time for a brief chat.

I gave my special friend Keith some homemade chocolate chip cookies for the band, and from the way he carefully carried them off, and I have a feeling they are all gone by today.

My wonderful daughter Mary Beth was along through the whole adventure, and had a great time herself. She has been a fan of Sting since high school days, so meeting him was a highlight for her.

My thanks to Russell, the band, Keith, Bruno and all the gang for another unforgettable happening – and to all the people who came over the say hello to me, with such kind words for the web site.

Murph

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