The First Waltz

Onscreen comparisons notwithstanding, The First Waltz bears little resemblance to its inspiration--Martin Scorsese's landmark 1978 concert documentary The Last Waltz (capturing The Band's farewell Thanksgiving 1976 performance)--either in the stature of the players or the quality of the between numbers commentary (largely from Nicholas Tremulis, whose titular band serves as the musical anchor providing solid backup to the various guest performers). But hey, my foot was tappin' and the proceeds go to a good cause: the Neon Street programs for Homeless Youth, a Chicago based social organization. Highlights of the largely rhythm and blues set include: Ivan Neville's cookin' original "Padlock," Gary Yerkins performing "If the Blues Was a Train," Sir Mack Rice singing his own classic "Mustang Sally," and--in an interesting twist--Billy Corgan (Smashing Pumpkins) and his father (on bass) performing onstage together for the first time a rockin' cover of Robert Johnson's "If I Had Possession Over Judgment Day." On a sadder note, this was one of the last waltzes for the late Rick Danko, an original member of The Band. Here, he leads a rousing show finale of "The Weight." Good music, good price, good cause, and a good choice for most public library collections. Recommended. Aud: P. (R. Pitman)