Early Elton: Tumbleweed Connections and Deep Tracks at The Warehouse

Early Elton, the outstanding trio who play the music of Elton John from the 1970-72 era, took the stage on Saturday, June 8 at The Warehouse at the FTC in Fairfield, Connecticut to perform the classic album Tumbleweed Connection. The show was a celebration of the band's tenth anniversary, and to mark the occasion, they provided the audience with a truly memorable evening of music. Tumbleweed Connection, originally released in 1970, is a concept album, inspired by Elton and lyricist Bernie Taupin's love of the Old West, and the sound of groups such as The Band. It's one of the finest albums in Elton's catalogue, and whenever Early Elton pays tribute to the record, it's always a special night. Things kicked off with a knockout version of "Ballad of a Well-Known Gun," and the band continued on with stunning performances of all of the album's songs, including "Country Comfort" and "My Father's Gun." The "Tumbleweed" section of the show climaxed with a spectacular, bring down the house version of the record's closing track, "Burn Down The Mission." But the night wasn't over yet. There were a lot more incredible songs to come, and the evening also included a couple of salutes to the amazing Dr. John, who we lost recently.

Early Elton - photo by Gilda Caserta

The evening continued with a number of "fan favorites" such as "Levon," and "Rocket Man," as well as a barn-storming rave-up on "Take Me To The Pilot." There were also visits to the gospel-fueled "Border Song" a lovely version of "Mona Lisas & Mad Hatters" and a deep tracks dive into the 11-17-70 version of "Can I Put You On?" which is one of my personal favorites. The enraptured audience sang and clapped along throughout the night, and by the time the guys got to the encore of "Madman Across The Water" and "Your Song," we'd been amazed, enthralled and transported to another level. The supremely talented John Conte (bass, vocals), Rich Pagano (drums, vocals) and Jeff Kazee (keyboards, vocals) have played with great bands like Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes and The Fab Faux, among others. But there's something very special and magical that happens whenever these three marvelous musicians come together as Early Elton.

The band has really done their research on Elton, or as vocalist/drummer Pagano refers to it "the archaeology," searching the internet for live videos and sound board mixes of Elton's concerts from the early 1970s, which featured Dee Murray on bass and Nigel Olsson on drums. Early Elton recreates the feeling of those vintage performances, but also adds some of their own ideas into the mix, with arrangements that feature passionate vocals and rich instrumentation. The combination makes for a superb and absolutely unique live experience that pays tribute to this classic music, while also giving it a depth and freshness that allows these talented musicians to share their deep love of Elton's music with audiences.

I've seen the band a number of times now, and I always enjoy their passionate performances. If you haven't seen these guys live yet, what are you waiting for? They're doing a number of dates this summer, so get out there and see them! Happy Anniversary, Early Elton, and thanks for the music. Here's to the next ten years! If you'd like to take a look at the band's info, follow this link to their website: http://www.earlyeltontrio.com, and check this link out to view a fantastic version of "Take Me To The Pilot." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RQaNuJxAyHQ.