The legendary Joe Jackson (the musician, not the shoeless ball player) is on tour in the US in September and October. His only Northwest date will be in Seattle on October second at the Moore Theater.
Jackson, who started out in the punk/new wave scene over thirty years ago, has now switched to more eclectic musical styles that aren’t quite as commercially successful, but still brings him a strong and loyal fan base. His latest endeavor is a tribute album of Duke Ellington songs simply called The Duke.
Accompanying Jackson on stage this time is the six-member Biggest Band whose members include acclaimed jazz violinist Regina Carter, two former Joe Jackson band members: Percussionist Sue Hadjopoulos and vocalist/multi-Instrumentalist Allison Cornell. The remaining members are Jesse Murphy on bass, vocals and tuba, Adam Rogers on guitar, and Nate Smith on drums.
Although Jackson is expected to perform some of his own songs from his thirty plus year career, (“Is She Really Going Out With Him” and “Real Men” come to mind) much of the show will be taken up with his unique but reverent take on Duke Ellington. The show will last two hours with no opening act.
I first tuned into Joe Jackson in either late 1980 or early 1981. I believe the first song I heard by him was “Beat Crazy.” I have heard great things about his live performances, but have never been able to go see him, so this will be my first time. If what I’ve heard from people who have seen him live is true, I am in for a treat. I can’t think of too many things better than listening to his great old material and also a new take on the music of Duke Ellington. This show is bound to sell out the small Moore Theater so it is recommended you get tickets early or be disappointed.
