Magical Thoughts

Sunday, September 14, 2008

Air Supply Love Zone Tour '07/'08 Continues In Springfield, Ohio 3/10/07

For the second time in my life, I could see Air Supply in a large, non-casino venue. The first time was outdoors in Arizona in 1981, when I was a young teenager and the second time was last Saturday night in the CSCC Performing Arts Center in Springfield, Ohio.

An hour drive from Columbus, Springfield, at first glance a quiet, Verschlafene city in the middle of nowhere. But as I drove downtown to my hotel, I was pleasantly surprised to see a center with buildings dedicated to art and historical monuments. I could not help but feel that the city was in contact with his love for community and education. It should come as no surprise then that patronage for the Performing Arts Center begrate Air Supply Center with an open arms.

The was quite large, can easily accommodate, operas, plays and other musical performers. The stage was immense, and the curtains must have been at least 35 meters high. At first glance, I knew that this would be an incredible place for Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock, to this audience some of these magical 80s, I experienced when I was 12.

Opening the show, Graham was seen as "opening act" for Air Supply. He told the audience that he would be performing three songs from his upcoming CD, "The Future", and hope that we all liked the songs. Having recently had the privilege of hearing Graham these three songs in Las Vegas, I can tell you that it sounds better and better with each performance. Maybe Graham will always be more comfortable with the live performances. Who's to know? What I can say is that every song is a testament to Graham's genius as a songwriter and singer. The audience seemed to really appreciate the art of "The Future", "Make You Mine" and "Leather & Lace" and I can not imagine a better place in which to showcase Graham's new works.

Finishing his three songs, Graham left and quickly returned to the stage, the curtain opened and Russell, Jed Moss, Jonni Lightfoot, and Mike Zerbe took their seats for the new power opener, "Even the nights are better." After spied the list shortly before the show, I knew we were for a full concert. It was refreshing to be in a venue where the band not to reduce the time constraints.

songs from "Just as I am", "A Little Bit Of Everything" and "here I am" were each beautifully sung, as usual . Added back into the timetable was "opportunities", as Graham and spoke to the audience only, he joked that the King and Queen of Springfield, together with the royal family in the audience. I will admit that I at first perplexed by this comment, but later realized he spoke to the patrons on the balcony to see the boxes below. Pretty funny!

After "Opportunities", was "Faith in Love" and then "The River /Sweet Dreams". Unfortunately, due to an audio edition, "The River /Sweet Dreams" was cut and a 10-minute break was announced. The audience appreciate the break and when we milled about, I heard very positive assessments of the sponsors with not a comment on the break or the song is reduced. I do not think they even noticed.

The show once with the band solo. What a treat to hear Jed sing the first two verses of "Live and Let Die". Jonni joined in the third verse (they sing). It is nice to see them Mix a little. I guess you never know what to expect in an Air Supply concert!

Graham and Russell returned and introduced "Less Two lonely people in the world". She spoke of how they used to in pizza parlours and never paid. And one thing that came from this experience is that they now hate pizza! But even better, now they will be paid! Russell Graham also interrupted when he mentioned how they met on the first day of rehearsals for Jesus Christ Superstar in 1975. Russell held his hand and sang quietly, "Jesus Christ Superstar ..." I think he had hoped that someone would be with him in the next verse, but not a look from the audience! Graham then said that Russell would tell us what they would be in addition to singing, and Russell quickly blurted out, "Two less lonely people ... In The World", as Graham had already started to play it.

"The One That You Love "and came alongside Russell and Graham ventured into the large audience. Graham has remained mostly near the front, but Russell was the whole theatre. And the fans were L-O-V-I-N-G, and him! Normally, audience members are quiet and respectful as Russell and Graham out into the audience, but this night the audience was a little on the Wild Side. What can I say? They were loving their Air Supply!

"Lost in Love" was next, followed by "Making Love Out Of Nothing At All". It was a fantastic show, and a great theater for this performance.

The Meet & Greet line was long and lasted probably a good 90 minutes. All were tired, but they have a few photos here and there. Here is my favorite part of the Meet & Greet is that all of the fans get the opportunity to Graham, Russell, Jed, Jonni and Mike. To see the joy on their faces, and the sparkles and tears in their eyes as they are able to meet, hug and say this really amazing talented and generous men, is simply priceless. I would forgo any opportunity to get to this line when they are in a position to witness the love that fills the hearts of all, as they say Thank you and good night.

Again, thanks to the hard-working and dedicated crew that all they do to the shows and an unforgettable feast for the eyes and ears. Thanks to Graham, Russell, Jed, Jonni and Mike for another fantastic show.

 

Betsy Hijazi attends Air Supply concerts whenever time and travel permits. She writes an Air Supply blog and posts her reviews, video clips and photos from the shows. Visit http://www.AirSupplyBlog.com for reviews, links, photos and video clips.

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