The ABBA Takes it All

This entry was posted Monday, 29 June, 2009 at 7:44 am

The gay community is quite appreciative that the world has given us ABBA.

Their often happy, bright, and clear cut message has resonated throughout our community.

This evening, I have the pleasure of covering ABBA, The Music at the Hollywood Bowl.

“Since 1922, the tradition of presenting the world’s greatest musicians and striving for musical excellence has remained a constant goal of this famed Los Angeles cultural landmark.”

http://www.hollywoodbowl.com/about/index.cfm

Covering the first half, is a really good Neil Diamond tribute band called Super Diamond. Perhaps you’ve heard of them?

Eating is very much a part of the Bowl experience for me. The Patina Group reigns here, and they are uncompromising. Have the tater tots. Trust.

Spotlights.

The tribute band comes onstage.

This my first live ABBA experience, and I am having a lot of fun!

At first, I had a hard time adjusting to the fact that I wasn’t listening to a perfect studio recording.

The costumes are all white, which definitely pop against the colorful stage.

As expected, the Bowl is sold out.

The original woodwind player from the band is here tonight. It’s a true joy to hear such talent. Honestly, I could’ve heard just him the whole evening, and been happy.

*I do have a music background, and I compose myself.

Fernando is playing. After the first few songs of warm up, they appear to be more together. And, of course, the flute is perfect. I think the old guy snapped ‘em up!

During Fermando, the ladies get a chance to sing solo. Gorgeous.

Someone’s always smoking pot at the Bowl. Why??

The original ABBA guitarist takes the stage! Very personable guy. He needs to play with the fluteist!

In terms of true “ABBA” spirit, it didn’t happen ’till Money, Money!

And, of course, Ma Ma Mia! is just pure Swedish fun!

And, due to my own struggled in life, I had to shed tears during, “The Winner Takes it All”. So, I tell you – GO, TAKE IT ALL!

During Dancing Queen, more queens were dancing than I could count.

One of the seven wonders of Los Angeles – a whole, drunk and hugh Hollywood Bowl, on their feet, rocking out to ABBA!

So, clearly, ABBA “took it all” tonight. Overall, their is no experience quite like the Hollywood Bowl. It’s an Angelino classic, and the summer programs have something for everyone. Come. Have some wine, conduct an orchestra, or play a video game – LIVE, and partake!

*http://web.me.com/dezinewiz/Daniel_Louis_Rappaport/Audio.html

1 Comment to The ABBA Takes it All

  1. ROSE HUGH says:

    July 24th, 2009 at 6:50 am

    I’ve read all your articles and you are writing beautifully. As I’ve always said, you have a style that’s all your own and that’s a good thing.

    I chose to comment on this one because I was there (at the Bowl) upon reading your critque I could picture myself in that moment, listening to some of the greatest songs ever produced.

    Thanks for the Music…Oh, oops, I meant great writing!

    Rose Hugh

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