REVIEW: Various Artists, The Bridge School Concerts Vol.
One
- Joann D. Ball
Rock and roll artists and activists have long recognized the power of music to create awareness and support for worthwhile causes and campaigns. For more than a decade, Neil Young has organized concerts in the San Francisco Bay area as a way to support and publicize the Bridge School. A cause very dear to Neil and his wife Pegi, the Bridge School was founded in 1987 as a unique educational program for children with severe speech and physical impairments.
Throughout the fifteen tracks on The Bridge School Concerts Vol. One , it is clear that the children are the inspiration for the performances. The release features some of the most dynamic artists in popular music, and all of them sing and play from the heart. The crowd responses captured on the CD reveal that these efforts were enthusiastically received, making the benefit concerts successful and memorable events.
Neil Young opens The Bridge School Concerts Vol. One with a tender version of "I Am A Child" from the 1986 concert. He dedicates the song to the children of the Bridge School and to children everywhere, a defining theme of this live acoustic record. Young's opening declaration is followed by Tom Petty's stirring solo version of "Shadow Of A Doubt (A Complex Kid)," also from 1986. While the smooth transition between these two artists is not surprising, The Bridge School Concerts Vol. One manages to maintain such a peaceful, even flow and sincerity throughout the hour-long set. Thus, "Sense of Purpose" by the Pretenders with the Duke Quartet moves right into Beck's stripped down and direct "It's All In Your Mind." And Bonnie Raitt's upbeat and bluesy "The Road's My Middle Name" rolls right into Don Henley's cover of the Beatles' "Yes It Is."
The real surprise here, though, is Ministry's perfect take on the Grateful Dead's "Friend Of The Devil." Ministry leader Al Jourgensen reveals his tender side, and captures the sweet essence of Jerry Garcia's tale of life on the run. Other outstanding contributions here include David Bowie's "Heroes," Simon & Garfunkel's touching "America" from the 1993 concert and "Nothingman" from Neil Young's pals Pearl Jam. Lovemongers, also known as Ann and Nancy Wilson of Heart, offer a simple yet amazing cover Led Zepplin's "Battle of Evermore." And Patti Smith and her band bring The Bridge School Concerts Vol. One to a close with a rousing "People Have The Power" from a 1996 performance.
The Bridge School Concerts Vol. One is an extremely enjoyable collection which features great live acoustic versions of some rock classics and soon-to-be classics. The record's brilliant production captures the sound and spirit of the performances, making it the next best thing to being in the audience. But most importantly, the CD benefits a much needed and well-deserving program. Proceeds from the The Bridge School Concerts Vol. One benefit the Bridge School and its students, some of whom are pictured on the pages of the CD jacket. So, enjoy the music and support the effort. Visit the Bridge School's website at http://www.bridgeschool.org
