Your last concert was to see who and when?

It's been a few years since I last heard Yuko Mabuchi live -- I had paused live concerts early in the pandemic, and since then Yuko has expanded her appearances to national venues, beyond SoCal.  So it was my delight to find her tonight at the esteemed Sierra Madre Playhouse.

Yuko played with engaging enthusiasm, choosing relatable jazz pleasers.  The concert opened with her own Livin' and Lovin', an early composition that glows with serene passion.  She also played her hit single Ethereal which reached #1 on the Smooth Jazz Singles (Spain and Latin America) chart.  The session ended with a rousing performance of Ain't No Mountain High Enough.

Accompanying Yuko were Del Atkins on bass guitar, Peter Buck on drums, and Greg Porée on acoustic guitar.  And as a special treat, well-known pianist Billy Mitchell delivered an impassioned vocal rendition of I Wish You Love.

It was a great evening.

My last show before the pandemic was Midge Ure at the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano. It was my second time seeing him (same venue), this time solo acoustic and he played his favorite cover songs, and I found out we have so much in common. Before that with his buddy Paul Young and band. Following the pandemic, it took a long time to get back out to see live music again. But Midge came through town last year and I walked out about half way through. He had a guy with him on stage in front of computers, his band in a box. I tried to enjoy it this karaoke night. I'm done with live music. It was fun while it lasted.

Addendum: I am keeping my ears open for some live classical.

Chicago Symphony Orchestra playing 1812 Overture Tsavskoskky with real canyon. Guest Zlatomir Fung cello. Amazing concert.My wife and enjoyed it.

Joe Bonamassa Saturday night. Christmas present from my son. Two months ago it was Bonnie Raiitt compliments of my daughter. Three months ago it was Lake Street Dive with all the kids and grandkids, including 2 year old. Six year old knows lyrics to most Michael Franti tunes. Will see them in two seeks with everyone. Well raised children.