The Saturday, Oct. 27 concert by singer-songwriter Eliza Gilkyson and master guitarist Nina Gerber was moving, uplifting and gritty. Things got off to a good start with a tribute to Sings Like Hell founder and guiding light Peggie Jones, who brought 21 years of “The Best Music You’ve Never Heard” to the Lobero, inventing the subscription series for contemporary non-classical music. SLH veteran Gilkyson’s sly and knowing lyrics and tough and tender voice, backed by Gerber’s slinky-with-a-sting accompaniment, made for some delicious listening. Humorous and slightly self-deprecating stories added to the charm. Openers Thom Jutz, Peter Cooper and Eric Brace were pretty dang good too! The following evening was quite different. Pat Metheney and his merry band – whirling dervish drummer Antonio Sanchez (a long-time associate), bassist Linda May Han Oh and keyboardist Gwilym Simcock – filled the hall with Metheny’s trademark high energy jazz. Mr. Metheny and bandmates were in a very good mood and the music reflected it, with stellar playing by all.
