June 21, 2010 – After 40 years of knockout success, it wouldn’t come as a surprise if just a little bit of fame would have reached Earth, Wind & Fire‘s heads. Although the band does have their expectations from the crowd (they probably wouldn’t be pleased without hearing screams and and singing voices upon breaking into the tight beat of “Let’s Groove Tonight“), there’s a very surprising aura of humility in the celebrated veterans of R&B. A 12-piece band complete with a full variety of horns, percussion, guitars, and voices, Earth, Wind & Fire gave a musically brilliant show to the fans gathered at the Wolf Trap on Monday.
Kicking things off with the groove of “Boogie Wonderland“, the three main figures of the band emerged in white jackets on the stage’s main platform. The sheer amount of energy flowing from bassist Verdine White, the showstopping vocals of Philip Bailey, and Ralph Johnson’s entertaining dance moves combine to make the trio a very memorable one.
There’s a lot of substance to the rest of Earth, Wind & Fire, too. The horn section may not be a backbone for most groups, but it certainly is for this one. Although every member of the group is hard working, there’s something to be said for the demands placed on a brass player during an EWF concert.
When the set slowed down for the delivery of some soulful ballads, it was singer Philip Bailey’s turn to shine. The 59-year-old looks closer to half his age, and the unearthly high notes he achieved during his passionate vocal delivery were truly a wonder. “He’s like a fine wine that gets better with time,” proclaimed bandmate Ralph Johnson. The sincerity in Bailey’s voice, and passion on display in the rest of the band made it clear that Earth, Wind & Fire aren’t just dance kings – they’re ballad kings too.
With constant motion, playing and dancing, choreography is a key element of the band’s stage show. The coordination of 12 musicians on stage seemed to be a tough task to handle, and indeed it was mesmerizing to watch the synchronized steps and moves during the show’s up-tempo numbers.
After spending time on mid-tempo arrangements, the crowd jumped with excitement when “September” broke out. There’s nothing wrong with those well executed ballads, but the fans at the Wolf Trap had come to dance without a doubt. Following it up with the intensity of “Let’s Groove Tonight“, Earth, Wind & Fire was on track to go out on a very high note. Although recorded over 30 years ago, these infectious classics are brought to life through a band that’s as vital as ever.
The 1970s seem distant at certain times, but very near at others. Playing to crowds eager to relive cherished classics and experience new flavors, Earth, Wind & Fire are exceeding expectations with a live show that truly showcases the finest of an era.
