I FINALLY got to see one of my favourite bands...groups?...orchestras?...well, there are 16 musicians onstage along with several vocalists.
And what a joy they all are. Originally from Portland, Oregon, the band was formed by Thomas Lauderdale and China Forbes (who was off for this appearance recovering from vocal problems) to become a "United Nations of Music". Tonight's programme included songs in French, Italian, Spanish and Japanese. And that was just the Overture!
Their latest album "1969" is a collaboration with Japanese singing legend Saori Yuki, dubbed the Barbra Streisand of Japan, probably for her fame and longevity because she sounds nothing like her. But she wafted onstage like a summer breeze, sang a Samba and a Japanese version of "Puff the Magic Dragon" and whispered "Please...my record....Check it out."
(above: Yuki & Lauderdale)
Another guest vocalist was Washington NPR radio political correspondent Ari Shapiro who sang up a storm (in several languages, like everyone) and was majorly hot. And speaking of which...
The ailing Ms. Forbes was replaced for this season by the incredible Storm Large who is new to me but not for long. The lady is an absolute knockout. There were several cameras filming the show (apart from the rude buggers endlessly taking pics on their cell phones) so maybe this will turn up as a tv special. A truly joyous event.
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