Austin City Limits Season 23 Episode 7 Nanci Griffith & the Crickets

Nanci Griffith & the Crickets is the seventh episode of the twenty-third season of the long-running music television show, Austin City Limits. The episode features the collaboration of two beloved country music acts. Griffith, known for her storytelling lyrics and sweet voice, performs in tandem with The Crickets, a rockabilly band that has been a staple of the genre since the 1950s.

The episode opens with Griffith taking center stage, dressed in a simple yet elegant long-sleeved black dress and strumming an acoustic guitar. She delivers a heartfelt rendition of her hit song "Trouble in the Fields," a ballad about the struggles of rural life and the importance of holding onto hope. Her voice is soft and tender, but with an underlying strength that exudes confidence and determination.

Griffith follows up with "Ford Econoline," a nostalgic tune about life on the road. Her folksy fingerpicking delivers the rhythm as she sings about the simple pleasures of driving across the country in an old van. Her lyrics are poignant and evocative, capturing the essence of a wanderlust lifestyle.

As the set progresses, The Crickets join in, providing a high-energy accompaniment to Griffith's gentle melodies. They begin with "Well Alright," a rock and roll classic that showcases the band's signature sound. The song features harmonized vocals and driving guitar riffs, supplied by the legendary Sonny Curtis.

Next up is "Peggy Sue," one of The Crickets' most well-known hits from the 1950s. Griffith takes control of the lead vocals, delivering a sultry rendition that would make Buddy Holly proud. The band's jangly guitars and upbeat drums provide a lively backdrop.

The Crickets also perform their own material, including "Love's Made a Fool of You," a catchy rockabilly tune that features a standout lead guitar solo. Later in the set, they switch gears with "Please Don't Ever Change," a sweet ballad about the endearing qualities of a new love.

Throughout the episode, Griffith and The Crickets display an easy rapport, and it's clear that they are having a great time playing together. The musicianship is top-notch, with each member contributing to the overall sound in a meaningful way. The setlist is carefully curated, with a mix of old favorites and newer material, ensuring that fans of both Griffith and The Crickets will be equally pleased.

As the episode draws to a close, Griffith leads the group in a stirring version of "It's a Hard Life Wherever You Go," a song that speaks to the resilience of the human spirit. Her voice soars as she sings about the trials and tribulations that we all face in life. The Crickets provide a solid backbone of percussion and guitar, giving the song a hopeful edge.

Nanci Griffith & the Crickets is a standout episode of Austin City Limits, showcasing the talents of two iconic musical acts. The performance is a testament to the power of collaboration, as Griffith and The Crickets bring out the best in each other. Fans of classic country and rock and roll will not want to miss this memorable episode.