Bruce Hornsby at Rockpalast (2001)

Bruce Hornsby & the Range. Live Music Hall Cologne 16 October 1990.
Singer-songwriter Bruce Hornsby rocketed to popular and critical attention in the mid-1980s with his sophisticated and soulful rock music. The master pianist and his backing group take the stage here at the Rockpalast in 1990, performing a set which includes such hits as "Jacob's Ladder," "Mandolin Rain," and the chart topping "The Way It Is." Hornsby beautifully demonstrates both his vocal range and his impeccable piano stylings, while the Range provide a full yet unobtrusive supporting sound.

Like Bruce Hornsby himself, this concert DVD is a no-frills event, focusing entirely on the music that Hornsby composes and plays with virtuoso flair. Recorded for German television on October 16, 1990, this performance finds Hornsby at the peak of his popularity, poised at a Baldwin grand piano with his sleeves rolled up, and kicking immediately into a full-blooded rendition of "Night on the Town" that sets the tone for a vibrant 90-minute set. There's nothing dazzling about the four-camera video coverage, and the sound quality is merely adequate, so you're not missing much if your attention roams from the screen. But Hornsby (also on accordion for a few songs) is as impressive as ever, from his biggest hit ("The Way It Is") to lesser-known songs ("The Show Goes On") that are equally good. Consider this a live CD with minimalist visuals, but for devoted fans it's a welcome addition to Hornsby's other recordings.

~ Jeff Shannon. Amazon.com

Tracklist:

01. A Night On The Town
02. The Valley Road
03. The Show Goes On
04. Jacob's Ladder
05. Defenders Of The Flag
06. Mandolin Rain
07. Lost Soul
08. The Way It Is
09. Across The River
10. Look Out Any Window
11. Another Day
12. On The Western Skyline
13. Not Fade Away
14. The Wild Frontier
15. Medley: Jumping Jack Flash (Rolling Stones) / It Takes A Lot To Laugh (It Takes A Train To Cry) (Bob Dylan)

Musicians:

Bruce Hornsby - Piano, Keyboards, Accordion, Vocals
John "J.T." Thomas - Keyboards, Organ
Bobby Read - Saxophones, Woodwinds, Flute
J. V. Collier - Bass
Doug Derryberry - Guitar, Mandolin
Sonny Emory - Drums