Through the generosity of a friend I was able to catch Alejandro Escovedo at The Greenwich Odeum on Friday night. I had seen him only once before and very briefly. I was not especially familiar with his work but there had always been a good "buzz" about him so I went.
Kris Gruen, a singer-songwriter from central Vermont provided the warm up of original pieces and has 4 CDs to his credit. He joined Alejandro at the end of his set in a duet.

Before playing one note Alejandro spoke for 15 minutes about life, where he'd come from, the influences in his life and the evolution of his musical form and exploits. He later spoke of his folks and his growing up as one of 12! Through the course of his life on the road he developed some issues with addictions and ultimately with Hep C and a very real likelihood of dying of cancer. He discussed the depths of depression and the hard business of recovery. His music is often a representation of these stories. He said he doesn't get invited to play at his kids' schools any more "man, this guy it too dark", he says. While it was challenging to listen to some of his trials, the spirit of recovery was foremost. He continues to do a lot of work on public awareness and fund raising for cancer research and treatment. He owes his life to the medical treatment developed to address Hep C and reports being totally cancer free.

I invite my friends from the RI area to check out a show or two at the Odeum. It's easy to get to, manageable free street parking, friendly volunteer staff in a fully restored 1920s theater which is quaint and cozy with 410 seats. Enjoy this gem and check out their website for upcoming shows - you may be surprised!

Alejandro wanted the stage lights down low.