On an abnormally warm November night in Providence on Friday the 15th, Lucinda Williams, the revered Queen of Americana, treated her loyal fans to an intimate and endearing musical trip down memory lane at Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Accompanied by her seasoned band Buick 6, which now features veteran rock guitarist Marc Ford, Williams embarked on a captivating sonic journey that delved deep into her storied catalog and her deeply personal book Stories from a Rock and Roll Heart. The jovial audience at the Vets sat back in their comfy velvet seats and listened contently to every word and note gifted to them with great pleasure.
Dressed in an all-black ensemble, Grammy Award-winning icon Williams exuded an air of mystery and authenticity. As she shared personal anecdotes about her upbringing in Louisiana, the audience was transported back in time, witnessing the genesis of her songwriting. The stage, adorned with evocative visuals, further enhanced the storytelling experience, connecting the audience to the roots of her music.
One of the many highlights of the evening was Williams’ rendition of Bob Dylan’s “It Takes a Lot to Laugh, It Takes a Train to Cry”. Her weathered voice breathed new life into the classic, captivating the audience with its raw emotion and depth. The thunderous applause that followed was a testament to her masterful interpretation. The iconic “Car Wheels on a Gravel Road” sent shivers down the audience’s spines, as Williams’ soulful vocals and the band’s impeccable musicianship created an electric atmosphere. Songs like “Little Angel, Little Brother” and “Lake Charles” showcased her ability to craft poignant narratives, drawing the audience into the very essence of her music.
Williams’ passion and raw emotion were palpable in performances of “Fruits of My Labor” and “Dust.” Her voice was impressive throughout, as was her ability to humbly share personal insights and stories, all while connecting with her audience from the show’s beginning. The Vets was filled with the warmth of her storytelling, many of which can also be found in her fascinating book. Lucinda Williams’ performance was an extraordinary experience. Her deep and personal songs and her captivating storytelling left an indelible mark on the audience. Her heartfelt musical nods to friends and family were a testament to her enduring talent as a songwriter and performer. The evening was a poignant exploration of her roots and journey, making it a night to remember for fans old and new.
3 Responses
Lucinda was brilliant, as was her band!!
In the intro paragraph the name of Lu’s book is “Don’t Tell Anybody the Secrets I Told You”, not “Stories from a Rock and Roll Heart”. Stories was the name of her last album.
Love Lucinda. Never get tired of playing her songs over and over.