Ringo Starr and his All Starrs

30 May 1997: Clarkston, Michigan

Last night (30 May 1997), a bunch of old English blokes nearly set the woods on fire at the Pine Knob Music Theatre, outdoors in Clarkston, Michigan (suburb of the Motor City).

For two sets totalling about 2 ½ hours, Ringo Starr and His All Starrs – this troupe featuring Peter Frampton, Gary Brooker, Jack Bruce, and Simon Kirke, with help from Marc Rivera – rocked like young dudes and played together like a BAND, not just a jam session. The concert was recorded for (I hope!) future release.

Nobody but Ringo could be more generous as a headliner. Of 24 numbers, he sang just 10 and let his guests star on 14, with all singing signature hits from their historied careers.

Frampton was electrifying on guitar, taking on leads made legendary by Clapton, Trower, and Kossoff and emerging triumphant with the audience on its feet. He built a following in Michigan circa "Frampton Comes Alive" and seemed to be (just a little) the crowd favorite, aside from Ringo of course.

Brooker was in fine form, white hair and all, on the day after his 52nd birthday. His classic keyboard skills are undiminished, and his distinctive voice added bite to the excellent group harmony.

Bruce also contributed unique, strong vocals and showed he is still the undisputed bull goose loony of the extended electric bass solo.

Kirke did his usual rock solid drumming, and was no slouch behind the microphone either. Rivera contributed on numerous instruments, with some fine sax and a nice touch on the organ.

Mr. Starr was a jovial master of ceremonies, obviously having a wonderful time, drummed on the others' songs, and sang a satisfying mix of Beatle and solo era material himself.

Here is the set list with songs and lead singers.

1st Set:

It Don't Come Easy – Ringo
Act Naturally – Ringo
The Devil Came from Kansas – Gary
Show Me the Way – Peter
Sunshine of Your Love – Jack
Shooting Star – Simon
Boys – Ringo
Baby I Love Your Way – Peter
You're Sixteen – Ringo
Yellow Submarine – Ringo

2nd Set:

A Salty Dog – Gary (solo vocal & piano – sweet!)
Norwegian Wood – Peter (solo vocal & 12-string)
Theme from an Imaginary Western – Jack (piano & vocal w/ Peter on guitar)
Conquistador – Gary
I Am the Greatest – Ringo
No No Song – Ringo
I Feel Free – Jack
All Right Now – Simon
I Wanna Be Your Man – Ringo
Do You Feel Like I Do? – Peter (extended version with boggling solos by Jack, Pete, & Gary)
White Room – Jack
A Whiter Shade of Pale – Gary (after which Ringo said "How would you like to have to follow that every night!?)
Photograph – Ringo

Encore:

A Little Help from My Friends – Ringo & All

Do yourself a favor and go to this show! Take the family & friends. It will fill your head with music and your heart with feelings we all still need as the millennium approaches.

Thanks to 'Bill Baker Barr A Squared (Of Course!)'

Read more Ringo / Gary reviews