Marshall Crenshaw Johnny D’s, Sommerville, MA 12/12/01
A very hip songwriter like Marshall Crenshaw and an intimate venue like Johnny D’s is a winning combination. It was a good crowd for a Wednesday night and none of the audience of mostly forty-somethings went home disappointed. With only his acoustic guitar and Dave Richards on acoustic bass as accompaniment, Marshall delivered a greatest hits type of set list that included Better Back Off, Someday Someway, and Cynical Girl . With his beach hat, greying chin stubble, and familiar oval shaped glasses, he looked at ease with himself while the attentive and appreciative fans who turned up made him feel welcome in Davis Square.
MC was very engaging and personable while occasionally introducing songs. We learned that Something’s Gonna Happen was his first release and that Television Light is one of his favorites that he’s written. For the latter he, “Owed it to himself to be in tune.Close enough.” I’m only Sleeping was an unusual way to honor George Harrison but it worked as did a playful version of El Paso dedicated to the also recently departed Grady Martin who played on the Marty Robbins recording. A few forgotten lyrics only added to its charm. You’re my Favorite Waste of Time and Whenever You’re on my Mind were fine encore choices.
-Eric Holland