Ben Folds Five Plays Tonight at Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater
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There’s a lot to admire about Ben Folds. For starters, the latest album from the recently reunited Ben Folds Five, The Sound of the Life of the Mind, is more evidence of Folds’ brilliant storytelling. True to his style, every song on it is a unique tale coming from an even more unique perspective – from the grand Sinatra-inspired heartbroken laments of “On Being Frank” to the in-your-face, raging mega-chords of the title track “The Sound of the Life of the Mind.”
And you’ll never forget the experience that is Ben Folds live. The man gives some of the most passionate performances I’ve ever seen, on vocals and going completely nuts on the piano. Pretty mind-blowing. On both points, I’d assume a Folds fan would expect no less. However, the one thing I truly hold in high regard is something that always appeals to me in all manner of artists: A dry, sardonic, and many times self-deprecating sense of humor.
This man is frickin’ hilarious. That is to say, for those of us who find hilarity in certain moments of life that turn dark and twisted. However, it’s also important to note the lighter side of his wit. Take a gander at the video created for the track “Do It Anyway” to see some very special guest stars rockin’ out with the band. You definitely need to move forward with a sense of humor to achieve something as cool as that.
Be sure to see Ben Folds Five perform tonight at Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater, 801 Red River. Songwriter Kate Miller-Heidke opens the show. Doors open at 7 p.m. Recommended.
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