Concert - reports & impressions

[SuzieQ]

From some of these comments, you would think that no one had seen this

[crobarbie]

From the "Word" magazine blog

www.wordmagazine.co.uk/blog

www.wordmagazine.co.uk/content/my-night-with-cat-stevens-0#comments

[crobarbie]

Times Online

entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/music/live_reviews/article6918682.ece

[JaneB]

Since I trust a Majicatter more than any of these blogs, can someone who was there last night give us the lowdown on timing? From what I am reading it sounds as though Yusuf sang for about 40 minutes, then came the musical, then he came back on. How long did he come back on for?

As for the couple from Chicago and the other couple from LA, all I can say is that I also flew from the US to see him in May and would have LOVED for him to play longer than he did! But did I love every minute of it nonetheless? ABSOLUTELY!! and I did not for one moment regret travelling all that way to see him. Sorry, but if they read the information out there about the concert, they should not have been so overwhelmingly disappointed.

As Helen and Juliette have said, perhaps they are not true fans.

And maybe I am just grumpy and patience-less on a Monday morning...

[crobarbie]

One more... now we can say that majority think that it was a great show

www.hotpress.com/discussions/messages.php?topic_id=6025585&t_page_no=1&t_a=topic_6025585

[JaneB]

crobarbie - a million thanks for all the information you are digging up! I am sure I speak for all of us when I say how appreciated it is!

[JaneB]

Nov 16, 2009 6:09:00 GMT -5 portabello4 said:

Yusuf should attend a Leonard Cohen concert in Dublin to see how it is done - a big band doing a 3 hour show giving the audience what they came for.

Maybe what people came for was unrealistic. It sounds like alot of people were expecting a Cat Stevens concert. Well, he has not been Cat Stevens in a very long time. I am sure Yusuf is well aware of the show that Leonard Cohen put on, but Yusuf is entitled to do his own thing. Based on what I am reading about last night, I am not suprised; I would not have expected anything different based on what has been put out there. I am really confused as to why so many people were surprised about that. Did people think a preview of a musical would only be a few minutes?

Again, sorry if I am being too grumpy on a Monday, but I honestly just don't get it. On the positive side, it is making me look forward to London even more and being with some Majicatters again.

[downunder72]

Just remember Yusuf .........,
"Whatever they say, whatever they do, I'll always love you". ;D And that's how the large majority of us feel. Don't ever forget that. True Yusuf/Cat fans only have respect and admiration for you. Don't let this unpleasant inscedent in Dublin make you bitter again. They were just a very, small minority. Just look ahead, and don't ever look back

[crobarbie]

From Cat Yusuf Facebook page... set list... great (for me)

The set list was as follows:

Lilywhite
The Wind
Thinking 'Bout You
Where Do The Children Play
Boots & Sand
Fill My Eyes
Roadsinger
Midday (Avoid City After Dark)
Sitting
I Think I See The Light

[Interval]

"Moonshadow" the Musical - Exclusive Preview

Miles from Nowhere
Don't Be Shy
Glass World
Bad Brakes
Moonshadow
Peace Train

All Kinds of Roses
Lilywhite (2009)
Tuesday's Dead
Father and Son (with Ronan Keating)


So, those Dubliners are very, very, very... do not know the right word... great set list, 20 songs + musical preview ... lucky ones who were there !!!

[JaneB]

I'm with you, crobarbie - 20 songs plus the musical and people were disappointed? I know this is mean, so forgive me, but I hope those who walked out and missed the entire second half of Yusuf performing realize (and feel) just how foolish they were. Yusuf doesn't need fans like that - he needs us!

This really has me worked up this morning - can you tell???

[mjwestha]

So he played 20 songs, 70% old songs, and they got a preview of his musical......yet people had the nerve to boo!? Seems to me some of the attendees got a little too heavy into the booze before the show, pretty ridiculous.

[Django]

Do people honestly think this won't be replicated in Britain if the Moonshadow preview remains at 40 minutes?

[richina]

After reading everything posted (BTW thanks everybody), I'm inclined to believe that the audience was not very sophisticated as far as manners go, apparently unable to comprehend an event poster, and/or unfamiliar with the nuances of Yusuf's career! Remember the song "Garden Party" by Rick Nelson? He wrote that after being booed at Madison Square Garden for not playing just his old music. In the song he said "Well if memories were all I sang, I'd rather drive a truck!" I'm sure every singer, that has enjoyed any amount of longetivity, gets tired of singing the same thing over and over! Much less trying to keep it sounding fresh and vibrant. I personally love that Yusuf is mixing it up a bit, and getting comfortable enough to go back to trying new things on stage. Nobody can expect an artist to remain stagnant...just look at how different all his albums were!! He has never been afraid to follow his heart, or his gut, when it comes to what's right for him. I personally don't have a problem trusting his choices because as a singer, artist, man, and human being...he never ceases to amaze me!
So there!!
Richina, a true fan (along with the rest of my Majicat buddies!)

[downunder72]

A very big thankyou from me too, for everyones reports, and links.

Crobarbie, I think everyone got caught up in reading all the reports, and forgot to thankyou for all your hard effort to keep us informed, even if some reports were disapointing, and sad.


After seeing the set list, there is no real excuse for the very bad attitude of these people. Obviously they have not been following Yusufs journey. I think we all know what catagory this group of people belong to. ;D

[richina]

Nov 16, 2009 10:53:17 GMT -5 Django said:

Do people honestly think this won't be replicated in Britain if the Moonshadow preview remains at 40 minutes?

I think people should sit back and enjoy the show. Maybe get familiar with some of his new stuff so the songs don't sound so foreign. When I went to the L.A. show, Roadsinger had only been out 6 days...guess who knew all the words and sang along?? I don't think Yusuf should compromise at all. If people don't want to see the "Moonshadow" part...they can take a nap or go to the loo! Sounds like a great evening to me!!

[Django]

Nov 16, 2009 11:06:56 GMT -5 richina said:

I think people should sit back and enjoy the show.

It's not a question of how people should have behaved. They certainly shouldn't boo. But an average bunch of punters will behave a certain way. For example very few people recognised Bad Breaks, only handful. So there is a limited bunch of dyed in wool Yusuf fans.
Most people were there for the hits. And the trouble didn't start until other people started to sing the hits. They thought they'd paid €100 to hear some stage singers sing Cat Stevens songs. That's when people got annoyed. They genuinely thought it was the end of the Yusuf segment and he wasn't coming back.

[Incognita]

Richina and all Cat/Yusuf fans - I have been reading all this since I woke up today. I've been processing my own sadness & some anger but above all I think my love for the dear man has been strengthened. Yusuf we trust you and look forward to whatever it is that you want to give us. It's precious!

Love from a new-old fan!

[thomasowen]

Out of intrest what songs were featured in the moonshadow section, I've heard Father and Son, Wild World, Matthew and Son and Remember the days of the old school yard - anything else? and what was the ratio between music and acting in the musical segment?

Thanks

[windofmysoul2]

I agree with you Richina. It sounds like, from reading all that is out there regarding the show, that Yusuf included in the evening more than what one would expect, both new and old material. It does not truly appear that the reaction of those that walked out was in fact very warranted. I would have loved for him to have played as long in LA, as he did in Dublin. However, I loved every minute at the El Rey Theatre, and truly appreciated having the opportunity to see and hear him. People tend to often be rude, inconsiderate, and unable to put things in perspective. Sad to see. I guess that is why our world is in the mess that it is in.

[cristalina]

Nov 16, 2009 10:56:32 GMT -5 richina said:

After reading everything posted (BTW thanks everybody), I'm inclined to believe that the audience was not very sophisticated as far as manners go, apparently unable to comprehend an event poster, and/or unfamiliar with the nuances of Yusuf's career!
Richina, a true fan (along with the rest of my Majicat buddies!)

I'm not sure Birmingham is very sophisticated either, I'm feeling nervous for him now

[cristalina]

Its not fair to compare Yusuf's concert to Leonard Cohen, I went to see Leonard and he was exceptional and most of the audience was amazed that he performed for 3 hours, but this is definately not the norm.

[crobarbie]

Tnx for all your's tnx...

Well, after I have read all these impressions all around the web, I think that Yusuf will also have some benefit from them... I beleive that it is very hard to find the good proportion of all parts of the show, so maybe now he'll have clear picture if maybe something was not planned 100 percent right... It is very complex situation to have "two parts concert" and the completely different form in the middle, and you must realize that the preview production can't be on the same level the musical will be when it will be playing on the West End stage. So, it is very important not to have too long breaks between segments of the show, and that is no easy to do in that way. Because you have to rearange stage for example etc., and at the same time just after 40 minutes of magic (first part) you have interruption, no matter for what this interruption is. So, I think that it would be very important to make this breaks to minimum time (minutes), and also the musical part must be no longer than cca 25-30 minutes (because you also need to count few minutes befeore and after)... I do not know the Dublin 02, but I think that The Royal Albert Hall vill be best place for this conception of the show and.... he, he... I'll be there

[SuzieQ]

Another review...

From Times Online November 16, 2009

Yusuf Islam at 02, Dublin
Lisa Verrico



It’s hard to imagine a singer less likely to cause a rift in a crowd than the artist formerly known as Cat Stevens. Yet on the debut date of his first tour in 33 years, Yusuf Islam saw fans storm out and heard two of his best-known songs spoiled by booing. Those he didn’t disappoint showed their support with a standing ovation. “Now I know what Dylan felt like,” laughed a disappointed Islam in an attempt to diffuse the tension. An artist as famous for his spirituality as his songs had tested his fans and found some of them wanting.

90 minutes earlier, Islam had sauntered on stage strumming a guitar and delivered an hour of pretty folk-pop that could hardly have been less controversial. Sounding like a serene preacher and looking like a gentle geography teacher, the grey-haired, grey-bearded singer started solo with "Lilywhite" in front a giant backdrop of an urban alleyway, surrounded by packing crates and a Victorian-style street lamp.

Joined first by his 1970s sidekick Alun Davies on guitar, then gradually a full band, Islam was initially revered by the entire audience. They applauded songs from his current album, "Roadsinger", as loudly as they did tracks from seminal albums "Tea For The Tillerman" and "Teaser And The Firecat". They tutted at his tale of the authorities who, five years ago, refused him entry in to the States and even clapped along to the song the incident inspired,"Boots And Sand", despite its clearly poor quality.

The bad vibes began when Islam paused his performance for a 40 minute preview of his forthcoming musical, "Moonshadow". A cast led by former Hear’say singer Noel Sullivan trouped on to act, dance and deliver a mix of new material and the Cat Stevens classics "Father & Son" and "Wild World". By the latter, streams of people were walking out, dismayed at Islam for handing over his hits.

In truth, the musical segment lasted far too long and was confusingly introduced. In London’s West End, where it is due to open next year, "Moonshadow" could go down a storm. In front of an audience who had come to hear Islam trawl his back catalogue, it was never going to work.

The bulk of the audience, however, remained for a final segment of the show that began on shaky ground – they groaned as Islam introduced more new songs and pulled a plucky Sullivan back on to duet – but ended on a high with a lengthy, rocky rendition of "Peace Train".

As fans began to file out, Islam had to halt them with the promise of a second encore. During a spine-tingling "Father and Son", he was joined by an unshaven Ronan Keating and the crowd roared with delight. Home-time then was happy, though this gig was a bumpy ride.

Tour continues at the NIA, Birmingham (Nov 23), Echo Arena, Liverpool (Dec 5), Royal Albert Hall, London (Dec 8). Details: www.yusufislam.com

[cristalina]

Maybe it work better if the show started with the musical as a warm up, as you would with a supporting group.

[windofmysoul2]

Just curious. Has this sort of thing been done before at other concerts? I would think not. When one takes a chance at trying something new, the possibility exists that there might be criticism, even though this reaction by some "fans" was not one, I would think, that was expected by Yusuf and others. Taking a chance..trying something new... sometimes changes things for the better... changes even the world.

[crobarbie]

Another, "Irish" one

www.state.ie/2009/11/live/yusuf-islam-o2-dublin/

[richina]

Amen!!! Watch, now everybody will be putting stage acts into the middle of accoustic sets!! And they'll say they thought of it. Yusuf knew he was doing something different, but like you I don't think he expected this. Maybe he'll tweak things a little...he's not one to shy away from a challenge.
All in all, I think reaction has been more positive than negative!! But of course I believe our group to be a little more protective than the "average CS/YI fan"? That's okay, I've always thought of us as "above average" anyway!! tee-hee
Carry on Yusuf and good luck in Birmingham next week!

[SuzieQ]

Nov 16, 2009 11:54:59 GMT -5 cristalina said:

Maybe it work better if the show started with the musical as a warm up, as you would with a supporting group.

I was thinking the same thing, Although, Yusuf, introduces parts of the musical, so maybe, that wouldn't work either

Maybe, now the running order is common knowledge, it won't be such a shock to some of the audience that weren't aware that Yusuf, wasn't going to be singing every song himself.

Hopefully, Birmingham, Liverpool and London, will have a better understanding and appreciation of what Yusuf, has spent so many years putting together for us. So that he will then feel it is worth taking the show around the world.

I just hope that all this hasn't made Yusuf, think again about coming back to the world of music.

It would be heartbreaking if a few were to ruin all this hard work and dedication.


Yusuf, these are a very small minority of people with who there is just no pleasing, please, don't be down at heart over this.
We here all love and understand what you are trying so hard to give us. Keep up the wonderful work that you do.

Peace to you and your family.

[Chris]

Wow, I come on late because of a nasty headache and read this?? From the sound of it, if they didn't know Bad Brakes, then they must have been only a few hits fans. To me, some of Cats/Yusufs best songs were the ones that never made it to the top 40's hit. And he definately sang more Cat songs than from his recent CD's
I just find it sad that Yusuf is trying to give us his all, and to be booed is very sad. They should have just been happy to be lucky enough to have been able to attend it. There are many, like myself, who would have given anything to go, but can't afford to fly over seas. Then to hear the boos and walk out is very disturbing. The song list to me sounded very extensive. Actually a great song list! If people would have just calmed down long enough to listen, they would have been given a real treat last night.... Well, I guess it was their loss.... I hope Yusuf doesn't take this to heart.

[SuzieQ]

My Night With Cat Stevens

The Word Magazine
Posted by Steven C on 16 November 2009 - 1:32am.

The return to the stage, after an absence of 33 years, of the artist formerly known as Cat Stevens was always going to be a memorable event. The reclusive singer songwriter emerging with a new album to promote - and quite fine it is too - and promising a preview of a musical drawing on his back catalogue.

I queued to buy my 'Tea For The Tillerman' mug. And queued; and queued. In front the more than middle aged fans quizzed the vendor about the merchandise, the sizing of the T- shirts and the quality of the cotton. Some of them even asked if there was a changing room to try them on! I had the impression that most of these people were desperate to find anything in a medium that might fit.

The lights dimmed and Yusuf strolled on to the stage strumming an acoustic guitar. The house went crazy. The first half of the first half was an acoustic set; the band increasing with each song to two guitarists and a bass player. Close your eyes and it was 1972. That voice has not aged and the harmonies were superb. A full band fleshed out the sound and took us to the interval. Yusuf came across as funny, modest and having a ball.

After a short break Yusuf set the scene for the excerpt from musical. Opening with two small children, quickly moving to adulthood in search of a dream. 'Matthew & Son', 'If You Want To Sing Out', 'Wild World' and 'Father and Son' all made an appearance with impressive new arrangements for the band, but sung by the cast, not by Yusuf. That's when the trouble began.

At first a few whistles, a few jeers; then came the sustained booing and slow hand-clapping. People began to file out. I had never been in a crowd like this before - it was incredibly ugly and I have to say unnerving. I had no idea where this was going. The mood spread throughout large sections of the crowd and the catcalls threatened to drown out what was happening onstage. The entire episode lasted maybe thirty minutes while the cast - in their first public performance - soldiered on.

At the end the majority of the crowd responded by giving the players a standing ovation - more as an apology or gesture of solidarity I suspect. This part of the show had been explicitly billed so I am not clear why there was such an expression of outrage.

When Yusuf returned to the stage he was clearly shaken. He made a few self deprecating comments and continued for another 20 minutes or so before a pre-encore break. For the encore he announced that he was going to play a few more and that the first was a new song - unbelievably this was greeted with more jeering and whistles. "Now I know how Dylan must have felt!" was his response, although he smiled; I wouldn't have.

The final song, begun as most people were filing out was 'Father & Son'. Part way through, on strolled Ronan Keating - seemingly straight from the gym. Now, those feckers in the audience - and some of you know who you are, barrister boy - who took exception to having to listen to someone else sing Cat Stevens songs at a Cat Stevens gig clearly make an exception for good old Ronan, and the place went nuts.

All in all the entire evening left a sour taste. I have no real explanation for the behaviour of a significant section of the crowd. The excerpt from the musical was pre-advertised for Christ's sake.If I don't like show, I leave. End of story. I can't think of any circumstances where I would feel the need to stand and jeer performers for half an hour. Get a drink, go home, kick the cat (sorry Fraser!). I feel I should offer an apology on behalf of the audience to Yusuf/Cat Stevens, and hope that he doesn't judge us all by the actions of an ignorant - if vocal - minority.