Customer Reviews

Karla Bonoff Live

5 star:		(11)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

As a diehard Karla Bonoff fan since her first release over 30 years ago, I admit I was still uncertain how this live CD might differ from Bonoff's 1999 greatest hits release All My Life. I should have known that, as usual, Karla not only does not disappoint but amazes and delights. You will find this live compilation a treasure whether you come to Bonoff's music as a longtime friend or a new acquaintance.

Recorded in an intimate setting that perfectly complements Bonoff's musical and vocal stylings, found here are interpretations of Bonoff's previously released classics that are both familiar and fresh, Bonoff pieces released with Bryndle, and several new releases that are worthy additions to the Bonoff library. Several classics not found on All My Life and included here are Please Be the One, Rose in the Garden, Never Stop Her Heart, New World, and How Long. Please Be the One receives new, more edgy treatments in tempo and instrumentation, including nice guitar riffs from Nina Gerber. How Long's downshift in tempo and Karla's vocals create a more reflective interpretation than the 1980's original. Previously unreleased additions Baja Oklahoma and What About Joanne are delightful musically and lyrically. Someone to Lay Down Beside Me, arguably Bonoff's best known work, seems to be thoughtfully interpreted through the 30 years of life and experience that have elapsed since it first graced our ears.

We can always expect excellent musicianship from Bonoff and her musical companions Kenny Edwards, Gerber, and Scott Babcock, and this CD certainly proves that once again. Karla's vocal expression reflects the personal style that has always made her music truly special, and it also now comes with an added ease and confidence.

If you are already a Bonoff fan, this CD is a must-have addition to your collection. If you are new to Bonoff's music, you will know that you truly have found a "rose in the garden."

KARLA BONOFF LIVE is a time capsule of 30 years worth of solo material (only four albums!) and two songs from Karla's three cd's with her group Bryndle. The good news is that it's 1977 all over again-"I Can't Hold On", "If He's Ever Near", and "Home" are just as genuine now as they were then. Karla's teardrop style piano complements Nina Gerber's flowing guitar for a quietly intimate performance. Subtle flourishes are provided by original Stone Poney Kenny Edwards. The surprises here are an up-tempo "Please Be The One" and a sparkling new song, "What About Joanne". LIVE is a warm journey through the past with hints of great things yet to come.

I've been a fan of Ms. Bonoff since the beginning and I also prefer live recordings to studio versions, so this was a no-brainer for me. I am grateful that she came out with this because the results are first rate. The production is very clear and the band sounds excellent, although I would have loved it even more with Andrew Gold present. After all these years, Karla's lovely voice and touching songs remain the gold standard of beautifully crafted music. Kenny Edwards provides the usual tasteful and perfect backup. Highly recommended.

My first experience with Karla Bonoff's music was in 1980 when she opened for Jackson Browne at a show in Albuquerque. Although many of us went to hear Jackson, David Lindley, Russ Kunkel, Leland Sklar and the rest play Browne's great original songs, Karla really stole the show that night. Even Jackson remarked that she was an amazing song writing talent and performer. He was right then and I'm right now saying, that in terms of original music that touches your soul, she ranks with Joni Mitchell and Emmylou Harris. LIVE masterfully showcases some of Karla's best ballads with great backup musicians (including Kenny Edwards and the incomparable guitar work of Nina Gerber). This is a MUST HAVE CD for anyone smart enough to want to both hear and listen to a ballad music master with a soft but firm mellow voice that you will never forget.

Like other reviewers, have followed Karla and her musicians since the beginning, certainly the first release in the '70's. Karla's autographed my albums, cassettes and CDs! Guess you could say I'm a fan forever. Have attended multiple shows and look forward to the next ones!

What an artist! We've fortunate to have her in 'our time'.

This "live" CD was everything I expected. Karla's voice is just as strong as it was years ago and her lyrics are just as poignant. I look forward to the next time she comes to Atlanta to perform.

Just buy this CD if you are a fan of Karla's. You will love it.

I've seen Karla live once before. This CD brought back memories and I would love to see her again live. Great CD and great driving music for the long trips. Highly recommended if you like Karla's music.

Since the 70's, I have loved Karla Bonoff. I saw her open for someone I can't even remember now, I was so taken by her voice. Then I found out she wrote her own songs, which to me is a sign of a great artist. Later when I was stationed in Korea and Turkey (in my military career) her songs helped me thru bouts of loneliness from being a apart from my wife and family for years. Her songs like Home, Falling Star, Wild Heart of the Young and my all time favorite, The Water is Wide are just a few of her songs that are filled with emotion and give you peace. Plus, an artist that can sound so good live, again the mark a great artist. This album is wonderful. I don't know how artists like Karla Bonoff and Jackson Browne continue to sing/write/sound better and better. You may have all these songs, but live is great and you need this album!

there's something refreshing about this live performance.even though the songs are older karla and the band put new life and strength into all of my personal favorites.this introduced my to "please be the one" and expanded my karla universe.also recommended-the best of karla bonoff-karla bonoff the cbs collection.