Lyle Lovett: Large and in Charge at City Winery

May 29, 2022 by Kyra Kverno

Lyle Lovett and His Large Band at City Winery NYC / photo by Kyra Kverno

Lyle Lovett and His Large Band kicked off their 2022 tour with a four-day, sold-out run at City Winery in New York City.

The four-time Grammy-winning singer, composer and actor hit the stage on Thursday, May 19, with his stellar band consisting of Jim Cox, piano; Luke Bulla, fiddle; Will Lee, bass; Buck Reed, steel guitar; Jeff White, guitar and mandolin; Russ Kunkel, drums; Professor Brad Leali, alto sax; Mace Hibbard, tenor sax; Charles Ross, trombone; Mitch Matkins, electric guitar; Steve Herrman, trumpet; and Francine Reed, Willie Green Jr., Lamont Van Hook and Jason Eskridge, vocals.

Pedal Steel and Guitar Duo / photo by Kyra Kverno

Lovett opened the show with “Pants Is Overrated,” from his latest album, 12th of June, to a cheering crowd of hard-core fans. Lovett’s music catalogue is large, with 14 albums to date. His music incorporates jazz, gospel, swing, folk and blues. His witty lyrics and crowd-pleasing banter kept the audience mesmerized.

Francine Reed with The Large Band /photo by Kyra Kverno

Playing many tunes from 12th of June, such as “Pig Meat Man” and “Gee, Baby Ain’t I Good to You?” — a wonderful duet with the incomparable Francine Reed — he also performed fan favorites from previous albums, including “If I Had a Boat,” “She’s No Lady,” “What Do You Do/Glory of Love,” “Cute as a Bug” and “That’s Right (You’re Not From Texas).”

The audience was also blessed with a stunning performance by Francine Reed doing “Wild Women Don’t Get the Blues.” The crowd sang and danced as Lovett and his band closed the night with “Church” from his Joshua Judges Ruth album — completely fitting, as I’m sure the audience left feeling like they had been taken there.

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Jessi Robertson: A Voice for the Vulnerable

Jessi Robertson-Memory and Abandoned Parts Album Art

Jessi Robertson is a powerhouse voice that captivates you from the first note. In a world where music is often a safe place for personal expression, she stands out as a compelling voice for the vulnerable. With her vivid lyrics and haunting melodies, her over 15-year career as a musician has carved a way for herself in the folk and Americana music scene, captivating audiences with her raw honesty and emotional depth. Born in a small town in upstate New York, Robertson’s journey into music began at an early age. Robertson moved to Brooklyn in 2003, as she honed her craft, recognizing its ability to speak directly to the human experience with authenticity and sincerity. Once in BK, she released her debut album, “Small Town Girls,” in 2010, which gained much traction for its lyrics and soul-stirring melodies. Following this came her 2014 release “I Came From The War.” Throughout her career, Robertson has fearlessly tackled themes ranging from love and loss to social justice and mental health. Her most recent release, “Memory and Abandoned Parts (15-Year Anniversary Edition of Who We Are, What We Have Done)” is a re-release of her original 2008 album. She continues to push the boundaries of her artistry, as the release explores the complexities of the human condition. Robertson’s impact extends beyond the recording studio. Recognizing the power of music to effect change, she uses her platform to advocate for issues close to her heart. Whether performing at charity events or speaking out on social media, Robertson is committed to using her art as a force for good. Through her music, Robertson invites listeners to confront the complexities of the human experience with empathy and compassion, reminding us of the power of art to bridge divides and inspire change. As she continues to evolve as an artist and an advocate, one thing remains certain: Jessi Robertson’s voice will echo in the hearts and minds of listeners for years to come, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape.

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