I had the good fortune(?) to see Jeff Beck last night at the Perth Concert Hall at the start of his Australian tour. He was supported by Australian singer/songwriter/guitarist, Jeff Lang.

I have not seen Jeff Beck since his days with the Yardbirds but read with interest the bio on his website. To say his performance was technically outstanding would be an understatement. He began his set with a dazzling guitar instrumental, followed by another dazzling instrumental, followed by ANOTHER DAZZLING INSTRUMNTAL! By the fifth "dazzling instrumental" I was beginning to switch off. Though I must say that the majority of the audience did not seem to share my lack of enthusiasm. Jeff gave us "dazzling instrumentals" for 90 minutes, not once had he approached the vocal mike at the front of the stage or spoken to the audience. At the end of the performance he finally spoke. I cannot remember the exact wording but is was something in the vein of "Thank you very much! On Bass xxxx xxxxx(undeciferable) on Drums XXX XXXXX, on keyboards XXXXX XXXXXX, Good night!". He then left the stage to Thunderous applause from the audience, and didn't return for an encore for about 5 minutes. He then returned, waved to the crowd, did a "Dazzling instrumental", waved again and left the stage. More thunderous applause from the audience. 3-4 minutes later, returned to the stage with keyboard player, did another Low key "dazzling instrumental" waved and left the stage,. End of Show.

Technically Excellent. Entertainment-wise (for me) Boring as Batshit!.

By comparison his support, Jeff Lang, came on stage, introduced himself. Introduced his songs, interacted with the audience and gave a stellar performance.

Jeff Beck left from backstage to go to his Hotel.

Jeff Lang came out front of house, signed CD's and did a meet and greet.

I shook his hand and told him that for me he was the star of the evening. I don't think he believed me though.

CHeers


Bugsy