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Ministikwan Lake comes alive with the sounds of Drums wafting across the water when the local First Nation are practicing for their Pow Wow appearances, during Sun Dances or Ghost Dances. It is actually quite wonderful to hear how the sounds move around the lake and the clarity in which they resonate. It’s like a concert in the forest.
It was quite amazing the similarities we found last Thursday as we took in Elton John with his band. It was Sir Elton’s first concert with his band and vocal backup in a long while.
Maui was the destination when he got sober and he holds a close spiritual connection to the Island. When the initial concert sold out he agreed to a second show.
The concert was held at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center in their new state of the art outdoor venue with seating for only 5000 patrons. For three straight hours Sir Elton ran his fingers up and down the grand piano backed up by a solid, solid kick ass rhythm section consisting of his drummer since 1969 Nigel Olson, his guitar player since 1971 Davey Johnstone, along with a percussionist extraordinaire from Ohio, bass player from Chicago and keyboard player. Joining them with backup vocals were one of the original members of “Sly and The Family Stone” and one was a Stone daughter. Without a doubt they were grooving, hoppin and a boppin, as Elton displayed his brilliance.
The opening tune was my pick of the night “Love Lies Bleeding”, while Donna picked Rocket Man along with Benny and The Jets. In “Take Me to the Pilot” Elton performed a several minute long piano solo simply incredible.
The outdoor venue was like being at home on the lake listing to the local drums or the 11th hour band when they played under the spruce trees. Also quite amazing was the fact the Maui Arts and cultural workers from the parking lot workers to the security workers and all the volunteers were all hospitable and helpful. I don’t recall the last time a worker thanked me for attending a show. Hats off too Maui for that. adhere148neigh@m.facebook.com
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