CROSBY, STILL AND NASH
Trust Stadium, Henderson, Auckland - March 24 I thought I was attending a senior citizens’ convention where the legendary group Crosby Still & Nash kicked off its 2012 world tour. Of course who would care to see CS&N but folks who thought of “Woodstock” as a major social upheaval – and its anthem having been performed by the trio with Neil Young? That was more than 40 years ago. Without much ado, the group walked straight on stage without any announcement and began playing “Carry On” with a bit of rustiness. By the second number, the band had gelled to deliver anthems that defined a generation including “Marrakesh Express”, “Southern Cross”, “Just a Song before I Go” and “Wooden Ships”. During the second set, Stephen Stills accompanied the group with a lone acoustic guitar, which amplified the sweet vocal harmony in “Helplessly Hoping”. There were a lot of sing-along songs including “Our House” and “Teach Your Children”; but three songs revealed each of these legends. Stills showed his rough and bluesy vocals in “Love the One You’re with”, Crosby had an unblemished and powerful performance in “Almost Cut my Hair” and Nash with his tender, yet uplifting rendition of “Cathedral”. Instead of simply resting on its laurel of retro hits, CS&N played new materials (“Radio”, “Almost Gone”. “In His Name”) that spoke on issues such as Wikileaks and the continuing trouble in the Middle East, and yes, the audience appreciated their views and their songs. Also, there were extended instrumentals that showcased the remarkable talents of the back-up musicians. Unlike other vocal groups such as America and Seals & Crofts that succumbed to pop music demands, CS&N remain true to their folk-rock roots and consistently write songs that espouse their stand on issues. By doing so, CS&N has remained relevant today as they were during Woodstock. So true, as I realized later that in the crowd were youths who knew CS&N songs as much the senior ones did. (CORD) CORD Music Magazine April 2012
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