I believe I’ve seen Lucinda Williams live 3 times, with my second show being what I had thought would be the final time. That show was at The Egg and I remember feeling that she had definitely gone over and down the hill to a place to which I didn’t want to follow.
But, there was something about the chance to see her in Bearsville that I couldn’t resist. I grabbed a ticket, arranged for the night off and committed to one more live Lu show.
I am so glad that I did.
The drive south was gorgeous with early autumn foliage starting to pop. Woodstock was bustling with tourists and an enthusiastic circle of drummers in Tinker Square. I took a leisurely walk around town, making a new friend along the way, before hopping back into my car to continue to Bearsville. I was committed to getting into the general admission venue early to secure an up close view of Lucinda and the band.
Minutes later, I was parked and heading to the Tinker Street Tavern for the one cocktail I planned to indulge myself with for the evening. I’m inclined to drink seasonally and a brown liquor is what I most enjoy once the weather cools. The very well made Boulevardier was exactly what I had hoped to sip on.
After sharing a picnic table with some folks behind the tavern, I transferred my cocktail to a plastic cup and walked over to get in line for a 7:00 entry to theater. The time spent in line was pleasant with other concert goers chatting and sharing stories of other shows and venues. Once the doors were unlocked, we entered and posted up, stage side, for the next few hours to take in the music.
The show blew me away. Since her stroke, Lucinda no longer plays guitar but her voice, the perfect mix of gravel and satin, was as good as I’ve ever heard her sing. Her energy and emotions were powerful and I was completely entranced. I traveled from never intending to see her again to feeling incredibly appreciative to having been given another opportunity to witness this American queen perform in what felt like a single chord.
It was a fantastic show at a great, independent venue that has newly inspired me to double down and double back to catch another American jewel, Ricki Lee Jones in December. Thank you, Lucinda and Bearsville for a wonderful evening that will not be forgotten.
