Review & Photos: Nate Hastings
Show photos HERE
In an era where blistering rhymes and freestyle skills are becoming less prevalent in hip hop, the median age of rock singers appears to be 70, and country music is dominated by bros singing about painted on jeans, it’s good to see that there is still an entertainer who is willing to leave it all out there for his audience.
Performing on live camera beginning at the back of the house and ending up in the audience before climbing up on the stage? Not a problem. Donning a fat suit or a purple octopus costume? Sure! Performing in front of a video of your nude (save for caution tape) self? Why not? Ladies and gentlemen, Weird Al Yankovic.
Weird Al Yankovic and his band of merry musicians descended upon the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion (still known to most locals as Meadowbrook) and took their audience on a journey through their 3+ decade career. Leading off with his Pharell Williams spoof “Tacky” before diving into his famous polka-fied or parodied versions of the hits of the day showmanship and musicianship were on full display to an excited audience.
One may make the mistake of assuming that an “Al” audience would be filled with 90% men, similar to the seminary of Rush concerts, but that would be a mistake. While Weird Al’s audience does feature many groups of not-as-young-as-they-feel men, one finds many women and whole families in attendance. The phrase “come as you are, you are welcome here” beams from everyone’s face.
While “Dare to be Stupid” plays, one can’t help but be pleased that many of the happy young girls in the audience are experiencing their first major concert moment in such a welcoming and supportive environment, rather than a conformity-fest that is likely to be found at the pop act of the day show. What a great way to send the future leaders of the world back to school at the end of summer!
Weird Al Yankovic at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion – Gilford, New Hampshire
