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Yes, that is a keytar which means that Herbie Hancock is in town.  One of the originators of the jazz fusion and funk movements in the 1970’s came to Lowell to share music with many generations of fans.  I have to hand it to Lowell for pulling in some interesting acts this year at the park.  This was my first summer venturing down that way and I enjoyed both shows.

Despite advertisements, there was no opening band for Herbie as the group assembled on stage around 7:30 and began to jam.  Opening with ‘Actual Proof’ there was no way you could sit still during this show.  This year’s touring band included: Greg Phillinganes on keyboards and vocals, Lionel Loueke on guitar and vocal contributions, James Genus on Bass, Vinnie Colaiuta pounding the drums and Christina Trane belting out on vocals and some violin.

Herbie’s latest album featured collaborations with P!NK and Seal on the road. Christina and Greg filled in and gave amazing vocal performances.  Lionel was incredible on guitar and added his own mix of African chant during his song ‘Seven Teens’ which segued into the classic Herbie track ‘Watermelon Man’.  James and Vinnie amounted to an incredible rhythm section and held that groove all night.  A portion of the songs were reimagined covers of songs by Sam Cooke, John Lennon, Bob Dylan and Bob Marley.  Herbie explained that the Imagine Project was a way to get artists together to bring awareness about the world and working with each other to bring peace.

When Herbie comes to town you never know what to expect, who he’ll bring or how it will all play out; so come prepared for anything.  If you love music make it a point to see Herbie whenever he comes back.

Setlist

Actual Proof
Imagine
Seven Teens/ Watermelon Man
Don’t Give Up
Court and Spark
Herbie Solo Piano
Cantaloupe Island
-Break
Tamatant Tilay/Exodus
The Times They Are A’Changin’/A Change is Gonna Come
Space Captain
-Encore
Chameleon