Soundstage Season 7 Episode 1 Counting Crows: Saturday Nights and Sunday Mornings

Counting Crows: Saturday Nights and Sunday Mornings kicks off the seventh season of Soundstage, a concert series featuring some of the biggest names in music. This episode showcases the legendary American rock band, Counting Crows, as they perform songs from their 2008 album, Saturday Nights and Sunday Mornings.

The concert was recorded live at the Vic Theatre in Chicago, Illinois, and captures the energy and passion of a band that has been at the forefront of the alternative rock movement since the 1990s. With their unique blend of rock, folk, and Americana, Counting Crows have cultivated a dedicated fan base that spans the globe.

The episode begins with a thunderous rendition of "1492", the opening track from Saturday Nights and Sunday Mornings. The band's trademark sound is in full force here, with frontman Adam Duritz's powerful vocals soaring over the driving guitar riffs and pounding drums. It's a powerful opening statement that sets the tone for the rest of the concert.

Next up is "Hanging Tree", a haunting ballad that showcases Duritz's ability to convey deep emotion with his voice. The sparse instrumentation of the song allows the lyrics to take center stage, and Duritz delivers them with a raw intensity that leaves the audience spellbound.

The concert continues with more new tracks from the album, including "Los Angeles", "Come Around", and "Cowboys". Each song is given a fresh, energetic treatment that demonstrates the band's skill at both crafting songs and performing them live.

However, it's when the band delves into their back catalog that the crowd really gets fired up. Hits like "Mr. Jones", "A Long December", and "Round Here" bring the audience to their feet, singing along at the top of their lungs. It's clear that these songs have become anthems for the band's fans, and the band seems to revel in the energy coming from the crowd.

Throughout the concert, the band's musicianship is on full display. Guitarists David Bryson and Dan Vickrey trade licks and solos, while drummer Jim Bogios and bassist Millard Powers provide a rock-solid foundation for the music. Keyboardist Charlie Gillingham adds color and texture to the songs, playing everything from piano to accordion to harmonica.

However, it's Duritz who remains the focal point of the show. His stage presence is magnetic, and his vocals are nothing short of breathtaking. Whether delivering a heart-wrenching ballad or belting out an upbeat rocker, he commands the attention of everyone in the theater.

Soundstage is known for its high-quality audio and video production, and Counting Crows: Saturday Nights and Sunday Mornings is no exception. The concert is shot beautifully, with multiple camera angles and great close-ups of the band members. The sound is crystal-clear, allowing the audience at home to experience the concert as if they were in the front row.

In conclusion, Counting Crows: Saturday Nights and Sunday Mornings is a must-see episode of Soundstage for any fan of the band or of great live music in general. With its mix of old hits and new classics, the concert showcases a band that has stood the test of time and remains as vital and powerful as ever.