One of my favorite concert experiences ever was the Ray Davies “Storyteller” tour in the mid-1990s, which I took in with Dave B. and Kevin Q. at the Berkshire Performing Arts Center in Massachusetts. So it was with great anticipation that I checked out Ray and his new band at the Commodore Ballroom last night and he did not disappoint.
Davies is undoubtedly one of the best songwriters in rock history and “Other People’s Lives” (his first solo album released earlier this year) proves he’s not lost his touch since he churned out all those classic Kinks songs.
Davies is no rock ‘n’ roll relic. His songs often express a wistful affection for the past (usually without being maudlin) and this is certainly evident in his new work. But, Davies avoids being trapped in the past (as an oldies act) and his new tunes were the most most energized and exciting parts of the Commodore show last night.
Set List (from memory so missing tunes and certainly not in order after the first couple of tunes)
I’m Not Like Everybody Else
Where Have All The Good Times Gone?
After the Fall
All She Wrote
Over My Head
Sunny Afternoon
Next Door Neighbor
Creatures of Little Faith
Run Away From Time
Shangri-La [One verse and chorus on request from crowd]
The Tourist
Things Are Going to Change (The Morning After)
All Day and All of the Night
Set Me Free
A Long Way From Home [Dedicated to Dave]
The Getaway (Lonesome Train)
Till The End of the Day
Stand Up Comic
You Really Got Me
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