The Best Time I'll Ever Have: Harlan T. Bobo Plays with Opus One
The Best Time I'll Ever Have: Harlan T. Bobo Plays with Opus One
When I got to the Hi-Tone Cafe for last night's Opus One performance, I knew it wasn't going to be a normal night at the tiny, dingy club. The floor around the stage was crowded with violinists and cellists, people were dressed up, and there were more glasses of wine than tallboys of Pabst.
The Symphony's Opus One series was designed as a more casual, accessible version of the orchestra, one that would appeal to a broader base of Memphians. Last night's show, which featured the music of Handel, Jimi Hendrix and Harlan T. Bobo brought a diverse crowd. The Hi-Tone's younger, slightly hipster demographic was mixed with well-dressed symphony patrons (some of whom looked a little lost).
To be fair, Harlan T. Bobo looked a little lost, too. He commented that half of the crowd probably had no idea what they had gotten themselves into as he launched into a loud, shouted version of "Too Much Love".
Judging the crowd's reaction, he quipped "My wife said I should play with other people more often. Are you happy, honey?"
As Harlan charmed his way through his seven song set, people gradually warmed up. His sounds sounded completely natural backed by an orchestra, possibly because of his long-time work with composer / cellist Jonathan Kirkscey (who arranged the pieces for the Opus One show).
He even got conductor Mei Ann Chen in on the show, giving her an instrument, a costume and very little instruction:
Before Harlan played, the ensemble performed Handel's "Royal Fireworks Suite" (the only time I've ever heard Handel get loud "Wooohooo!s of approval), and interpretations of Jimi Hendrix songs arranged by MSO violinist and composer Marshall Fine.
The evening ended when most Hi-Tone shows start with confetti cannon, a sing-along and Harlan T. Bobo, gleefully (and somewhat surprisedly) yelling "it worked!"
If you missed the show last night, there's going to be a repeat performance tonight at the Hi-Tone at 7:30. The Symphony will play Handel and Hendrix, and Harlan T. Bobo will join them for a set of his songs. Tickets are $25 at the door.
After the Opus One show, Harlan T. Bobo is playing a "normal" show at the Hi-Tone with his four-piece band. Cover for that is $5.
Go There:
Opus One Presents: Handel, Hendrix and Harlan
Tonight, $25
1913 Poplar Avenue
Memphis, TN 38104
(901) 278-8663
Comments Make Us Happy