The pair of Givin' it up finally arrives in Milan and ignites a Emerald Theatre crowded for the occasion. Over two hours of great music in a setting full of enthusiasm, as well as the usual class of these two great musicians.
Introduced by a band made up of big names from the American jazz circuit (Stanley Banks on bass, Thom Hall on keyboards, Micheal O'Neill on guitar, Mark Simmons on drums), the two take the stage together, before separating for two separate sets, the first with Al Jarreau protaginist, the second with George Benson.
Two shows with different characteristics. Al Jarreau focuses on jazzy communication, full of improvisations with interludes of be pop and jazz standards between songs. The singer immediately captivates the audience with a version of 'Your Song (Elton John), then Take Five', 'Morning' e Spain (Chik Korea).
George Bensonwho returns to the stage to duet in 'Summer Breeze', plays the funkiest part of the concert, as was to be expected. Coming Love x Love, Nature boy, In your eyesa touching Love balladbefore the 'all rise' on Give me the night. Benson shows his two sides: that of the great jazz guitarist and that of the funky hit man, both to the great approval of the audience in the hall.
Closing with both on stage, after band introductions in true American-style by guitarist O'Neill, with Givin' it up... hats off!
Photos Paolo Battigelli
