Mark Deming begins his excellent biography of Richard Thompson at
allmusic.com with the following sentence: “An iconic figure in British
folk-rock, Richard Thompson is arguably the genre's greatest triple threat: a
dazzling guitarist, an outstanding songwriter, and a strong and evocative
vocalist.” I’d certainly agree, but would add “compelling live performer” to
the list. One of the advantages of following a non-superstar act (speaking
commercially, rather than in terms of talent) is that you get plenty of
opportunities to see them in small, intimate venues (Rams Head, Barns at Wolf
Trap, the Birchmere) at a reasonable price: since I started this blog, I’ve
seen Thompson on 5 separate occasions, not counting his brief opening set for
Bonnie Raitt at Wolf Trap.
Favorite songs:
Keep Your Distance
1952 Vincent Black Lightning
Tear-Stained Letter
Wall Of Death*
Valerie
I Misunderstood
King Of Bohemia
Dimming Of The Day
I Feel So Good
Don't Renege On Our Love*
Hots For The Smarts
Uninhabited Man
Beeswing
Crawl Back (Under My Stone)
Walking The Long Mile Home
Waltzing's For Dreamers
When The Spell Is Broken
How Will I Ever Be Simple Again
Crocodile Tears
* - Richard and Linda Thompson
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