Austin City Limits Season 4 Episode 5 Leon Redbone followed by Steve Fromholz

Austin City Limits season 4 episode 5 features two legendary performers, Leon Redbone followed by Steve Fromholz, in a night of unforgettable music.

Leon Redbone, a mysterious figure who rarely gave interviews and always performed behind dark glasses and a Panama hat, graced the ACL stage with his unique blend of jazz, blues, and retro-pop. With his iconic deep baritone vocals and love for obscure vintage music, Redbone led his band through a setlist that delighted the audience. He kicked off the night with "Shine On Harvest Moon," an old Vaudeville tune that showcased his impressive yodelling skills. He then moved on to "Hesitation Blues," a classic blues tune made famous by Louis Armstrong and Bessie Smith. Redbone's version was playful and upbeat, with his guitar work and harmonica solos taking center stage.

Redbone then slowed things down with "My Walking Stick," a sweet ballad that featured his trademark fingerpicking and whimsical lyrics. He continued with a mix of jazz standards, including "Ain't Misbehavin'," "Some of These Days," and "Polly Wolly Doodle." Redbone's ability to make old songs sound fresh and relevant was on full display, with his arrangements leaving the audience cheering and clapping. He closed out his set with "Big Chief Buffalo Nickel," a song that perfectly captured his blend of humour, nostalgia, and musicianship.

After a short break, Steve Fromholz took the stage with his band. An acclaimed singer-songwriter who was part of the Austin music scene in the 1970s, Fromholz's set was a mix of folk, country, and rock. He started his set with "Texas Trilogy," a medley of three songs that told the story of Texas and its history. Fromholz's storytelling skills and warm vocals shone through, with the audience hanging on his every word.

Fromholz then moved on to "I'd Have to be Crazy," a song he co-wrote with Willie Nelson. The song's catchy melody and poignant lyrics were the perfect showcase for Fromholz's talents as a songwriter and performer. Fromholz's band was tight and well-rehearsed, with each member getting a chance to shine. They played new material like "Star-Crossed Wasteland" and older classics like "Bears," a song about living in harmony with nature.

Fromholz also indulged the audience with some covers, including a beautiful rendition of the traditional hymn "Wayfaring Stranger." The song's haunting melody and Fromholz's emotional delivery left few dry eyes in the audience. He closed out his set with "Long Monday," a song that captured the bittersweet feeling of the end of the weekend and the beginning of a new week. Fromholz's warm and engaging personality, combined with his undeniable musical abilities, made for a thrilling night of music on ACL.

Overall, Austin City Limits season 4 episode 5 was a celebration of two unique and talented performers. Leon Redbone and Steve Fromholz each brought their distinctive styles and personalities to the stage, leaving the audience cheering for more. With their mix of classic tunes, original material, and cover songs, these two artists proved why they are still beloved by fans today.