June 7, 2010 – There’s something unique about those first few concerts of summer, whether its the crowd’s anticipation or the amazingly fresh air is simply a mystery. And there’s also something special about Jeff Beck‘s guitar playing that made him the perfect fit to usher in the unofficial start of the concert season at the Wolf Trap’s Filene Center. Beck is universally respected as a guitar god, and with thousands of shows, dozens of albums, and a legion of dedicated fans, he’s more than earned the title. The British virtuoso’s latest resurgence is Emotion and Commotion, a successful new studio album already touted as one of his finest works.
With blasting sounds and melodies emerging from his guitar, Beck somehow accomplished both a calming and an exciting effect with his playing. His virtuosity and confidence were on display as he skirted around on stage in a style so nonchalant that it made blending all-out rock with jazz and a hint of classical look easy. And perhaps for a veteran of the Yardbirds and the recipient of five Grammy awards, it was easy as pie.
A man of few words and many riffs, it was 45 minutes into the performance before the Virginia crowd heard a single word from their rock hero. “It’s been worth all these years just to be here tonight,” Beck declared. Yes, it was his music that did most of the talking. In the midst of the show’s most stirring numbers, it indeed felt as if Beck’s guitar was alive and speaking through each note. But unfortunately for those who envy, the guitar that plays so well it speaks is nowhere to be found. Instead that striking tone is the result of unique talent and years of live and studio perfection.
Beck’s band is top notch, too. Bassist Rhonda Smith had impressive solos of her own, while drummer Narada Michael Walden became so engrossed in his performance that surely parts of the audience thought he’d gone mad. But Beck was still in command of the stage at all times, leaving little room for rest as songs flowed smoothly into each other.
Jazz and classical music were very powerful elements during the set, but this is nothing new for Beck fans. Those fans, by the way, ranged from middle school students to their grandparents (who just may have seen a college age Beck in concert many years ago). It’s a testament to the timeless quality found in his compositions, and the limitless appeal of his music that transcends many of the genres that typically serve instead as dividers. Although the tempo at times seemed dangerously slow, the undeniable passion in the guitarist was more than enough to maintain fascination.
A tribute to the late Les Paul was in order for the first part of the encore, which built into a fine finale with The Beatles‘ “A Day in the Life“. Cheers and a standing ovation erupted from the packed crowd at the Wolf Trap as the evening came to a close. Jeff Beck continues his Emotion and Commotion tour into the United States and Europe later this year. For more information, visit www.JeffBeck.com.
