Last year, when progressive guitarist Adrian Belew brought his power trio to State Theatre, I was skeptical about how much I'd enjoy the show. Many months before, I'd finally seen Jeff Beck — another prog-rock heavy hitter whom I loved and appreciated — and found myself indifferent, bored even, by Beck's cold licks and lack of charisma. But when Belew took the stage with brother-and-sister rhythm section Eric and Julie Slick, his goofy mug all smiles, and they launched into a set of dynamic, jazz-infused electro rock, my doubts were put to rest. Belew's sound was relevant and rousing, a refreshing change from the route followed by too many veteran musicians, who fall back on the familiar rather than attempting to break new or even gently-tread-upon ground. Belew knew when to take control with face-melting licks, when the time was right for improvisation and when he needed to add psychedelic texture to his sizzling sonic landscape. Belew wasn't just the frontman but a vibrant force who owned his music. Overall, a badass show and one of the best I saw last year. Belew and his trio return to town this Friday night; Jerry Outlaw & Friends provide support. Fri., May 30, 8 p.m., Skipper's Smokehouse, 910 Skipper Road, Tampa, $20 in advance/$25 day of show, 813-971-0666, skipperssmokehouse.com.
This article appears in May 28 – Jun 3, 2008.
