Country is certainly not the most popular genre of music on college campuses, but this did not stop Lyle Lovett and his Large Band from delivering an energetic set of alternative country tunes Thursday night in the Center for the Arts Mainstage Theater.
Lovett mixed songs from his latest album, Natural Forces, with fan favorites from his illustrious career. The mostly adult crowd applauded his new efforts almost as much as they did his classics.
Lovett is known for his hilarious stage banter. While there was nary a UB student in site, Lovett did not shy away from discussing his experience at the school, where he walked in on a dress rehearsal for a student production of Rent.
'We tried them on,' Lovett said, referring to the dresses that will be used for the performance. 'The students were nice about it.'
Lovett's band, which at some points of the night contained over 10 members, worked together in perfect harmony.
While Lovett was the star of the show, he made sure to share the spotlight. He introduced each band member multiple times throughout the night, and the band seemed inspired by the audience's enthusiasm.
While the band produced a loud sound, the Center for Arts was the perfect venue to make Lovett's concert feel intimate.
The band showcased the variety found on Natural Forces. From the hilarious 'Farmer Brown/Chicken Reel' (complete with chicken sounds provided by the band), to more traditional country songs like the album's title track, the new songs were a pleasure.
'Here I Am' featured hilarious spoken sections between the choruses, and the crowd seemed so eager to laugh that they almost started before Lovett delivered the punch lines.
Lovett performed the old favorites 'If I had a Boat' and 'I've Been to Memphis' with such charisma that they seemed fresh.
Even though Buffalo is hundreds and hundreds of miles away from Texas, Lovett was able to bring some southern warmth to the town as winter approaches.
During 'That's Right (You're Not from Texas),' Lovett proclaimed, 'That's right, you're not from Texas, but Texas wants you anyway.' Out of Lovett's mouth, it sounded like it might be true.
Lovett went on to wish Buffalo good luck with Terrell Owens, who is currently playing his first season with the Buffalo Bills.
While it is easy to only think of Lovett in terms of his funny personality, there were many heartfelt moments throughout the night. Lovett gave a genuinely emotional speech about the troops fighting overseas.
The crowd could not get enough of Lovett's performance. The audience was in unanimous silence during most of the songs so that everyone could hear Lovett's words.
'I've never seen such a wonderful concert,' said Donna Monczynski of East Aurora. 'It was like candy for the senses.'
Ron Kasprzak, 50, of Grand Island, has been to several Lovett concerts and said he's been surprised every time.
'You always get more than you expect, and you always leave wanting more,' he said.
Email: arts@ubspectrum.com
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
