Review - Dave Davies, May 23, 2003, Alex Theatre, Glendale, California
Date: May 25, 2003
From: Rob Peirson
Soroptimist International of The Verdugos Presents: Dave Davies - Transformation
The Alex Theatre, Glendale, California, Friday, May 23, 2003
Soroptimist International is a worldwide organization for women in management and professions,working through service projects to advance human rights and the status of women. Soroptimist International of The Verdugos stands for positive change and increased global awareness; uplifts the lives and eases the plight of women and children; serves on local, regional, and international projects; creates future leaders and acts locally and globally to promote the advancement of human rights and the status of women.
The Alex Theatre is a wonderful Hollywood era icon and was a most appropriate local for this benefit concert. Dave was invited based on connections with his meditating contacts.
The event began with the handing out of the Soroptimist International Women of Distinction Award to Academy Award winner Hayley Mills. Hayley also received certificates of appreciation from many local groups and government offices while on stage. She concluded with a short speech thanking all in attendance.
To introduce Dave, Jim Ladd of KLOS 95.5 FM, came on stage and shared general thoughts on the Kinks and specifically cited that "Around the Dial" was one of the few songs to truly capture his profession as a DJ. Strangely, Jim introduced the sound check noting that Dave and band would be out shortly thereafter.
Dave look more relaxed since I last saw him as he came on stage. He was joined by Jonathan Lea (rhythm guitar), Jim Laspesa (drums) and Derric Anderson (bass). For a few songs during the show a keyboardist joined the band but I did not catch his name.
The show was focused on the Kinks and Dave's latest album Bug. Dave made an effort to get the crowd involved in the show and also talk a bit more than usual.
The part of the show that was a surprise was when the band was joined by a nine member Hare Krishna band (3 women, 6 men) at the end of "Life After Life". Dave and band then left the stage as the Hare Krishna band sang "Hare Krishna" with hand held drums and clasps.
Overall a great show, here is the song list:
- Who's Fooling Who
- Till the End of the Day
- I Need You
- You Don't Know What I Mean
- Blues Instrumental
- You're Looking Fine
- Tired of Waiting
- Set Me Free
- See My Friends
- Why?!!
- Dead End Street
- Rock You, Rock Me
- Flowers in the Rain
- Death of a Clown
- Picture Book
- Fortis Green
- It Ain't Over, 'Till Its Done
- Bug
- Life After Life (Transformation)
- Hare Krishna Medley
- Living on a Thin Line
- You Really Got Me
- I'm Not Like Everybody Else
- Father Christmas
- You Really Got Me (Reprise)
