07/30/02

It's curious to see what a legendary rock icon can do to jaded record industry folks. Take, for example, the case of Robbie Robertson, who showed up in all his glory last week right here in Atlanta.

The occasion was a private showcase for the talents of a heretofore unknown singer and songwriter named Dana Glover, who is tall and magnificent, with a voice that could tame wild animals. Rightly considered by Dreamworks Records as a force of nature, Glover, who comes from North Carolina, charmed us thoroughly. Explaining each song carefully, it was clear that these are precious possessions, not be trifled with. Soulful, enigmatic, bemused but grateful for the chance to display her craft. The setting was the Ritz Carlton in Buckhead, a rarity in these days of label cutbacks. Robertson was there to introduce this fair damsel, in his role as big-shot record company executive. His love of good music is still readily apparent, but he was also chuffed at all the attention he received. There was much fawning. The usually jaded industry people I referred to were lining up to get autographs from him along with regular plebeians. He doffed his dark shades early on, and submitted himself to the process, like a pro that's been through all this many times before.

My best wishes to Ms. Glover, who well deserves the accolades so far bestowed. Her album is called Testimony and sounds powerfully good, if a little polished. It will be released in late summer. I suggest you try to see her live, where she truly shines.

Another nice thing that happened last week was the return of the great Nick Lowe. What a pleasure to see him again. While it's fair to say that a band behind him would not go amiss, seeing the man with just his guitar is an experience all its own. Erudite, urbane, and blessed with the gift of the gab, Lowe is all he's cracked up to be. Listen to The Convincer and you will be, well, convinced. Too bad there was a couple sitting next to me who were clearly insane, particularly the woman, who thought every utterance of Mr. Lowe's was absolutely hysterical. He's not a comedian, lady. He's a musician. Some of his work is downright somber, if not morbid. So chill.

Two big music conferences in Atlanta this week, people, so pay attention. Atlantis you know about. Go and support it and you may get something out of it. There is even a golf tournament if you can stand the heat. The second one is Independent Georgia. It's new, and it looks promising. Kudos to the organizers for having the guts to stage this event at the same time as Atlantis. Both events are charging $25 for wristbands and will last from July 31 until August 3. I'm not going to make any specific recommendations as to who or what to see. You are all big boys and girls with minds of your own. I will, however, be lurking in the shadows during the week, looking for good music wherever it may be, and will report on the results in the next column.

I have to go now.