Year of the Cat, Al Stewart

Western Connecticut is home to a charming venue known as the Palace Theater of Danbury. Last Friday night it was a stop on the latest tour of Scottish born singer / songwriter Al Stewart who has been practicing his craft since the 1960’s.

Al’s accompaniment for the evening consisted of Dave Nachmanoff on lead guitar and on bass was Mike Lindauer. Prior to Al Stewart hitting the stage, these fine musicians in their own right warmed up the crowd with several lively songs which were very well received. When Al took the stage, the audience responded with an enthusiastic welcome!  He entertained the crowd not only with music but with tales of his lengthy musical past as well as some humorous songs made up on the spot including one about being in Danbury with Angela Lansbury. His sense of humor pervaded the entire show which added to enjoyable evening. When Al spoke in the high pitched voice of an old English woman, one would swear that there was a member of the Monty Python comedy troupe on stage!

Of course the show contained Al’s two biggest hits that everyone knows, the 1976 hit “Year of the Cat” and 1978’s “Time Passages”, both of which had the audience singing along. Lesser charted songs were received with equal enthusiasm as the 72 year old singer’s voice is just as strong and melodious as it was at the height of his commercial popularity. When the hour and a half show ended, people were left wanting for more due to the wonderful time had by all.

This unpretentious entertainer has a stage presence and attitude not often found in performers today.  After the show was over, he came out and graciously signed autographs for those who wanted one. He stuck around until he had made sure everyone who wanted his signature had it. Al Stewart is a gentleman who truly endears himself to his audience.

Coverage by Rich Russo RP Russo Photography

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