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San Francisco Chronicle
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- San Francisco Chronicle
Paul Simon's quiet power remains strong in San Francisco concert
Witnessing singer-songwriters mature over decades can often reveal the true substance of their work. For Paul Simon, his light, nuanced tenor — that first emerged as part of the folk duo Simon & Garfunkel to help define the sound of the 1960s — has changed into something lower and softer at age 83. It commands that you lean in at times. His growl is like the grain of the wood barrels that age whiskey. It colors and underlines Simon's abilities as a songwriter, the stunning poetry that's been a part of American culture for seven decades. More Information Davies Symphony Hall Setlist Act 1: 'The Lord' 'Love Is Like A Braid' 'My Professional Opinion' 'Your Forgiveness' 'Trail of Volcanoes' 'The Sacred Harp' 'Wait' Act 2: 'Graceland' 'Slip Slidin' Away' 'Train in the Distance' 'Homeward Bound' (Simon & Garfunkel song) 'The Late Great Johnny Ace' 'St. Judy's Comet' 'Under African Skies' 'Rene and Georgette Magritte With Their Dog After the War' 'Rewrite' 'Spirit Voices' 'Mother and Child Reunion' 'Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard' Encore One: 'Father and Daughter' '50 Ways to Leave Your Lover' 'The Boxer' (Simon & Garfunkel song) Encore Two: 'The Sound of Silence' (Simon & Garfunkel song) That lived-in voice, shaped by time and experience, met a fitting match in the intimate setting of Davies Symphony Hall where Simon — onstage just a few weeks after his emergency back surgery — performed the first of three shows on Saturday, July 19, as part of his A Quiet Celebration tour in support of his latest album, 'Seven Psalms.' One of the most affecting moments of the two hour-long concert came when he sang 'Homeward Bound.' About a young man who seeks his calling in the world but eventually feels the pull back to where he came from, the song has a different poignancy. You feels the miles he's traveled in his voice, and there's a new wisdom Simon now imbues into the 1966 Simon & Garfunkel classic. Tears welled in the eyes of many in the largely baby boomer audience. It was a moment that made clear that some great storytellers and their material can get better with age. A member of the Rock & Roll and Grammy Halls of Fame, Simon helped form the soundtrack of 1960s counterculture with folk-rock hits written with Art Garfunkel, including 'The Sound of Silence' and 'Mrs. Robinson' — the latter forever tied to the Bay Area thanks to its use in the 1967 film 'The Graduate,' where it plays as Dustin Hoffman drives across the Bay Bridge. Albums 'Graceland' (1986) with its Southern African influences and 'The Rhythm of the Saints' (1990) drawing from Brazilian folk traditions were best sellers and artistic successes. 'This tour is the first opportunity I've had performing with my band since before COVID,' he told the audience referring to his excellent ensemble that included Caleb Burhans (viola), Jamey Haddad (percussion), Gyan Riley (guitar), Mick Rossi (piano, keys), Andy Snitzer (saxophone), Nancy Stagnitta (flute), Mark Stewart (guitar), Eugene Friesen (cello), Steve Gadd (drums) and Bakithi Kumalo (bass) Then he went on to explaining the first act of the evening would be his 'Seven Psalms' showcase; he promised 'the greatest hits' would come later. The 'Seven Psalms' acoustic set was performed on a mostly dark stage, the lighting suggesting a campfire. The material, inspired by the Book of Psalms, is nuanced and reflective, with a quiet intensity. The opening track, 'The Lord,' set the mood with lyrics like 'Tribal voices old and young. Celebrations a history of families sung. The endlеss river flows.' It conjured a sense of looking back, tinged with melancholy but also with a sense of eternity. The night came alive in a new way when singer Edie Brickell, Simon's wife, took to the stage for a transcendent 'The Sacred Harp.' The bends and curves of Brickell's voice gently wounds its way around Simon's lyrics, her sweetness giving lovely contrast to Simon's rougher sounds. The couple finished the first act with 'Wait,' whose lyrics — 'I'm not ready. I'm just packing my gear. Wait. My hand's steady. My mind is still clear' — remind you that 'Seven Psalms' is a powerful late-career album by Simon that contemplates bigger mortal themes. Act two began with a spirited 'Graceland,' the title track from Simon's seventh solo studio album released in 1986. 'Slip Slidin' Away' (1977) and 'Train in the Distance'(1983) are among the songs that feel very different in Simon's mature vocals. The lightness on these and others are gone, but a new character colors them. The ayahuasca-inspired 'Spirit Voices' (Simon joked about the song's source in one of his sparse addresses to the audience) was another smooth, joyful highlight of the second act. So was the concluding 'Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard' from his 1972 self-titled album, which has become such a shorthand for a certain kind of cool in pop culture (especially after its use by Wes Anderson in his 2001 film 'The Royal Tenenbaums') that it got a roar from the crowd. For his encores, Simon was joined by his band to sing 'Father and Daughter,' from the soundtrack to 2002 animated film 'The Wild Thornberries,' followed by '50 Ways to Leave Your Lover' (1975) and the Simon & Garfunkel hit 'The Boxer'(1970). Then, on stage by himself, he performed 'The Sound of Silence,' a fittingly gentle way to bid us goodnight.
Scoop
17-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Fam Is Back: Film Festival Edition: Karangahape Road Becomes A Living Cinema
Press Release – Elephant Publicity After the first FAM celebration lit up Karangahape Road in May, it's back this winter with a brand-new twist. On Saturday 2 August, the street transforms into a living, breathing cinema with films popping up in arcades, alleyways, shopfronts, and around all kinds of unexpected corners. FAM: Film Festival Edition will fill the street with screenings, live performances, and music from 2pm 'til late and it's all completely free. This full-street takeover, inspired by the spirit of the New Zealand International Film Festival, has a very K' Road flavour. At East Street, catch Homeward Bound with your dog (yes, furry friends are welcome), or sing your heart out at Cult Classic with Kita, an interactive, glitter-soaked evening hosted by the fabulous drag superstar Kita Mean. Settle in for a John Carpenter horror double feature at Whammy Bar. Expect big sounds outside Pitt Street Church, including a set from the one and only Bub, led by Priya Sami, will be rocking the street. Add to that nostalgic shorts, underground premieres, music videos, and showtunes from the pink piano on Pitt Street, and you've got yourself a cinematic street party like no other. ' FAM is all about bringing people together on K' Road and using all the weird and wonderful spaces we've got on this iconic street,' says Ella, Creative Producer at the Karangahape Road Business Association. ' It's fun, it's a bit chaotic, and there's something for everyone.' Other highlights of the day include Guerilla Filmmaking Workshop with Julia Reynolds (2:30pm to 4pm) A hands-on session for aspiring storytellers looking to make films. Kiri & Lou Takeover at St Kevins Arcade (2pm – 5pm) Join SMALL RAVE for a playful afternoon of Kiri and Lou magic at St Kevins Arcade. Activities include clay animation, storytime, hands-on crafts, and screenings of the BAFTA-nominated kids show. Free fun for all ages — come get silly and creative! Day One short films, local music videos, and live performances from Bub, Goodspace and dān dān (4pm – 7pm) Top of the Pitts Stage outside Pitt St Church Everything Everywhere All At Once – Step into the K' Road laundromat to watch this epic movie which will play on a loop all evening (2pm – 6pm) Beyond the Familiar: Artist Talk at RM Gallery (4pm) Beyond the Familiar is a portrayal of an in-between world, shaped by the movements of migration. Featuring Tāmaki Makaurau-based artists from South-East Asian and Pasifika backgrounds, the exhibition reflects on their diasporic experiences, where identity, belonging, and memory intersect across shifting cultural landscapes. Paraidolia: Immersive Art Exhibition at The Button Factory (from 6pm) Wander through a world of abstract paintings and sculptural lamps that play with perception and emotion. Queer Night Club CHURCH: at Neck of the Woods (10pm) An offering of sound, movement and connection, this edition features a special collaboration with illustrator and poet Māori Mermaid (Jessica Hinerangi Thompson-Carr). This event celebrates the creativity, boldness and independent spirit of Karangahape Road, where every corner has a story to tell. Full programme is launching soon! Proudly supported by Karangahape Business Association, Auckland Council and the city centre targeted rate.
Scoop
17-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Fam Is Back: Film Festival Edition: Karangahape Road Becomes A Living Cinema
After the first FAM celebration lit up Karangahape Road in May, it's back this winter with a brand-new twist. On Saturday 2 August, the street transforms into a living, breathing cinema with films popping up in arcades, alleyways, shopfronts, and around all kinds of unexpected corners. FAM: Film Festival Edition will fill the street with screenings, live performances, and music from 2pm 'til late and it's all completely free. This full-street takeover, inspired by the spirit of the New Zealand International Film Festival, has a very K' Road flavour. At East Street, catch Homeward Bound with your dog (yes, furry friends are welcome), or sing your heart out at Cult Classic with Kita, an interactive, glitter-soaked evening hosted by the fabulous drag superstar Kita Mean. Settle in for a John Carpenter horror double feature at Whammy Bar. Expect big sounds outside Pitt Street Church, including a set from the one and only Bub, led by Priya Sami, will be rocking the street. Add to that nostalgic shorts, underground premieres, music videos, and showtunes from the pink piano on Pitt Street, and you've got yourself a cinematic street party like no other. ' FAM is all about bringing people together on K' Road and using all the weird and wonderful spaces we've got on this iconic street,' says Ella, Creative Producer at the Karangahape Road Business Association. ' It's fun, it's a bit chaotic, and there's something for everyone.' Other highlights of the day include Guerilla Filmmaking Workshop with Julia Reynolds (2:30pm to 4pm) A hands-on session for aspiring storytellers looking to make films. Kiri & Lou Takeover at St Kevins Arcade (2pm - 5pm) Join SMALL RAVE for a playful afternoon of Kiri and Lou magic at St Kevins Arcade. Activities include clay animation, storytime, hands-on crafts, and screenings of the BAFTA-nominated kids show. Free fun for all ages — come get silly and creative! Day One short films, local music videos, and live performances from Bub, Goodspace and dān dān (4pm - 7pm) Top of the Pitts Stage outside Pitt St Church Everything Everywhere All At Once - Step into the K' Road laundromat to watch this epic movie which will play on a loop all evening (2pm - 6pm) Beyond the Familiar: Artist Talk at RM Gallery (4pm) Beyond the Familiar is a portrayal of an in-between world, shaped by the movements of migration. Featuring Tāmaki Makaurau-based artists from South-East Asian and Pasifika backgrounds, the exhibition reflects on their diasporic experiences, where identity, belonging, and memory intersect across shifting cultural landscapes. Paraidolia: Immersive Art Exhibition at The Button Factory (from 6pm) Wander through a world of abstract paintings and sculptural lamps that play with perception and emotion. Queer Night Club CHURCH: at Neck of the Woods (10pm) An offering of sound, movement and connection, this edition features a special collaboration with illustrator and poet Māori Mermaid (Jessica Hinerangi Thompson-Carr). This event celebrates the creativity, boldness and independent spirit of Karangahape Road, where every corner has a story to tell. Full programme is launching soon! Proudly supported by Karangahape Business Association, Auckland Council and the city centre targeted rate.
West Australian
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- West Australian
The Simon and Garfunkel Story touring to His Majesty's Theatre and Mandurah Performing Arts Centre in August
Praise from an artist about their life story portrayal is no easy feat but it was bestowed on The Simon and Garfunkel Story cast when Art Garfunkel surprised them on stage in 2024 after attending a New York performance. UK musical theatre talent Luke Hogan depicts Garfunkel alongside US performer Israel Bloodgood as Paul Simon in this blend of theatre, concert and biography, presenting the tale of how two young boys from Queens, New York become one of the world's most successful music duos. The production follows the highs and lows, from humble beginnings to the songs and stories that shaped them, the dramatic split, solo careers and epic 1981 Central Park reunion concert. 'Art's voice is iconic,' Hogan says. 'His mannerisms are so unique; it's been a joy to embody them. 'The music they made is some of the best we've ever heard. Once we found that sound, we were so excited to share it. It's what makes this show feel so alive.' Narration and huge projected images of 1960s photographs and film footage help to set the scene as the audience is transported to a time of poetic lyrics, haunting harmonies and cultural revolution. Hogan and Bloodgood perform the catalogue of hits accompanied by a full band — comprising Nick Martin on bass, Harrison White on keyboards/guitar and Harry Denton on drums — including Mrs Robinson, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound, Scarborough Fair, The Boxer and The Sound Of Silence. 'It (the show) brings people back to their youth or reminds them of loved ones who adored this music,' Hogan says. 'The projections give the audience a clearer understanding of the story. They remind us of the era's significance.' Bloodgood adds: 'It's like being invited into the world behind the songs, what inspired them, what they meant.' The Simon and Garfunkel Story first toured Australia in 2016 and returns with Hogan and Bloodgood following their sell-out performance earlier this year at The London Palladium. It is all about audience connection for this pair, who are reminded how deeply this music resonates whenever seeing people mouth the lyrics, smile or even tear up. 'I want them to be moved, to reflect, maybe even be challenged, and hopefully, we make a few new Simon and Garfunkel fans along the way,' Bloodgood says. 'The lyrics, the melodies; they're timeless. Every time I perform a song like America or Old Friends, I discover something new. 'Singing Kathy's Song or Homeward Bound, I think of my wife and kids. Those songs are about longing. Paul Simon understood that.' The Simon and Garfunkel Story is at His Majesty's Theatre, August 15 and 16 and Mandurah Performing Arts Centre, August 17. Tickets at (Perth) and (Mandurah).
Perth Now
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Perth Now
Music duo reunited in stage story
Praise from an artist about their life story portrayal is no easy feat but it was bestowed on The Simon and Garfunkel Story cast when Art Garfunkel surprised them on stage in 2024 after attending a New York performance. UK musical theatre talent Luke Hogan depicts Garfunkel alongside US performer Israel Bloodgood as Paul Simon in this blend of theatre, concert and biography, presenting the tale of how two young boys from Queens, New York become one of the world's most successful music duos. The production follows the highs and lows, from humble beginnings to the songs and stories that shaped them, the dramatic split, solo careers and epic 1981 Central Park reunion concert. 'Art's voice is iconic,' Hogan says. 'His mannerisms are so unique; it's been a joy to embody them. Luke Hogan as Art Garfunkel and Israel Bloodgood as Paul Simon in The Simon and Garfunkel Story. Credit: Carsten Windhorst 'The music they made is some of the best we've ever heard. Once we found that sound, we were so excited to share it. It's what makes this show feel so alive.' Narration and huge projected images of 1960s photographs and film footage help to set the scene as the audience is transported to a time of poetic lyrics, haunting harmonies and cultural revolution. Hogan and Bloodgood perform the catalogue of hits accompanied by a full band — comprising Nick Martin on bass, Harrison White on keyboards/guitar and Harry Denton on drums — including Mrs Robinson, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound, Scarborough Fair, The Boxer and The Sound Of Silence. The Simon and Garfunkel Story is returning to Australia. Credit: Carsten Windhorst 'It (the show) brings people back to their youth or reminds them of loved ones who adored this music,' Hogan says. 'The projections give the audience a clearer understanding of the story. They remind us of the era's significance.' Bloodgood adds: 'It's like being invited into the world behind the songs, what inspired them, what they meant.' The Simon and Garfunkel Story first toured Australia in 2016 and returns with Hogan and Bloodgood following their sell-out performance earlier this year at The London Palladium. It is all about audience connection for this pair, who are reminded how deeply this music resonates whenever seeing people mouth the lyrics, smile or even tear up. 'I want them to be moved, to reflect, maybe even be challenged, and hopefully, we make a few new Simon and Garfunkel fans along the way,' Bloodgood says. Luke Hogan performs as Art Garfunkel and Israel Bloodgood as Paul Simon. Credit: Carsten Windhorst 'The lyrics, the melodies; they're timeless. Every time I perform a song like America or Old Friends, I discover something new. 'Singing Kathy's Song or Homeward Bound, I think of my wife and kids. Those songs are about longing. Paul Simon understood that.' The Simon and Garfunkel Story is at His Majesty's Theatre, August 15 and 16 and Mandurah Performing Arts Centre, August 17. Tickets at (Perth) and (Mandurah).
