Herbie Hancock – Wellington
5th May 2007
Herbie has always been a musical hero for me in his own right never mind being a Miles alumni and on top of that during Miles’s greatest recording period.
Personally, I put him up there with Miles as a performer, innovator, and musician but who came a little too late to be able to be credited with forging new music as Miles, Bird, Dizzy and Monk were. But as a later disciple, he’s carried the message to new generations and opened new ears through his various collaborations and styles.
He played Wellington Micheal Fowler center on Saturday, May 5th, 2007. The lineup was ;
Herbie – Keyboards Piano
Vinnie Colaiula – Drums
Nathan East – Bass
Lionel Loueke – Guitar
Sadly no printed program so the setlist was a bit of a mystery but not to the ear as I continually thought ” know that one”.
There was a beautiful solo rendition of Maiden Voyage. The bulk was a homage to his headhunter days and this rocked and jived. The largely “older” audience jiggled in their seats whereas I’m sure if a younger “hip” audience could have afforded to turn up they would have been 10 deep in front of the stage and gyrating.
What can you say about a lineup like this other than tight? The unknown for me was Lionel Loueke. Dressed in African robes Herbie made reference to him a number of times with a tone of respect for new talent. A very accomplished guitarist and he definitely brought an African “world music” cadence to his guitar.
Played an astonishing solo whilst the rest of the band sneaked off stage.
“Possibilities” was out and in the shops. “River” probably in the can and another Grammy some months away.
All I can say was it was a privilege.
Namaste, Mr. Hancock Namaste.
Links
http://www.herbiehancock.com/
http://www.vinniecolaiuta.com/
http://www.nathaneast.com/
http://www.lionelloueke.com/
Following review is of his 2019 Wellington Concert which I sadly missed
https://www.ambientlightblog.com/herbie-hancock-wellington-nz-2019/
In My Own Write 