Last Waltz Live Rev Tor Band and Friends City Stage, Springfield, MA November 10, 2017

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For a few years now the Rev Tor Band has been recreating the iconic concert by the Band, The Last Waltz, with an ensemble cast at amazing venues throughout the East Coast.  November 10th was no exception as the City Stage was host to this wonderful event. In addition to a nine-piece band of top-notch players including horns and the inimitable Rev Tor himself leading the show, the concert features a cast of local and regional music scene regulars that fill out the guest appearances from that legendary concert forty years ago.

The Rev Tor Band handles about half of the songs on their own, from the introduction Theme to the Last Waltz. This show’s opener was Don’t Do It. They invite amazing performers to cover the parts handled by the diverse cast of the original from Bob Dylan to Neil Diamond, Joni Mitchell, Van Morrison, and others.

FULL SHOW AUDIO

Janet Barker Ryan brought her bluesy vocals to the Muddy Waters section of the show.  But instead of his classic, I’m a Man, she changed it to Koko Taylor’s I’m a Wo-Man and belted without reservation.  Other cast members for this show included:   Jim Armenti of the Lonesome Brothers, Lynn Barsalou, Brett Connors of Flipper Dave, Tommy Filiault, Jenny Goodspeed of the Boxcar Lillies, Wally Greaney, Jen Jensen, Carrie Johnson, and Kenny LaBelle. 

Springfield’s own Peter Newland of local legends FAT took the stage for the show’s featured position, the Bob Dylan finale.  Forever Young, and Baby Let Me Follow You Down closed the regular portion of the show.  All of the performers were brought back on stage for a finale that was, of course, I Shall Be Released, and the ensemble piece showcased the community spirit that the whole show represents.  Not only a great night of music with songs that we all know and love as our scriptures, but also a coming together of the regional music scene, showcasing the talents of these diverse players with a common goal and spirit.

We caught up with Rev Tor and asked him about the show.  He responded, “This was one of the easiest Waltz’s to cast. Almost all the guest performers were alumni of the show. It made for a great, relaxed performance from everyone!”

To submit a story or to just say hello, email us at [email protected]

Check out the Live Music News and Review.com Facebook page for updates and announcements.