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