Energetic! Enthusiastic! Youthful! Invigorating! Bob Dylan? You betcha!

Tonight’s show at the Anthem was a professional tour de force. Bob Dylan and His Band showcased tried and true classics in gutsy, rocking, new arrangements that kept me guessing and grinning throughout his rollicking, fast paced show.

Classics I’ve had memorized for decades like, “It Ain’t Me Babe,” “Tangled Up In Blue,” and “Desolation Row.” Were transformed into fresh and relevant rockers. George Receli on drums was driven while setting the band’s pace. Dylan’s piano playing was at times barrel house, at times Thelonius Monk. Donnie Herron effortlessly moved from country stylings to Hawaiian guitar sounds on pedal steel. Stu Kimball and Charlie Sexton locked in on guitars and Tony Garnier commanded the bottom on electric and double bass. Bob Dylan and his band own this never ending tour.


There were a handful of songs that adhered to the original arrangements. For example, “Early Roman Kings,” and “Ballad of a Thin Man.” But most of the night was made up of curious twists like when Dylan transformed into a 1950’s crooner for the seasonally appropriate “Autumn Leaves.” His voice was, dare I say… melodic.

Bob Dylan’s stage presence was powerful. When he moved from behind the piano and struck his Elvis pose the crowd went wild. Bob was having fun and that fun was infectious.

The Anthem was the perfect setting for this very professional evening of music. I’m guessing there were at least 5000 in attendance and there was still plenty of room to move and few lines at the concessions or bathrooms. There was a strict no taping or photography policy and I heard people were booted from the venue. I didn’t see anyone thrown out so I cannot confirm. My experience with the staff was completely positive.

I’ve seen Dylan many times in my life. He has always dished surprising arrangements. Tonight’s show was surprisingly dynamic. Dylan made these well worn tunes relevant. If you get a chance to see this tour, go.