Three Dog Night

Calling this concert by Three Dog Night and the Tennessee Symphony “a new moment in history,” as the announcer does, is an absurd bit of hype. But it doesn't mean fans of the group won't enjoy the show, recorded in 2000 at Tennessee's Renaissance Center. Singers Danny Hutton and Cory Wells' voices are still strong, if a bit shrill (third Dog and ex-drug addict Chuck Negron isn't mentioned, let alone seen or heard); their backing band features several original members; and the orchestra adds some interesting arrangements and considerable color. Most of all, these guys had a lot of hits, many of which are performed here, including “Mama Told Me Not to Come,” “One,” “Eli's Coming,” “Easy to Be Hard,” and the inevitable “Joy to the World.” Creative direction and interviews with the principals help turn this into a pleasant walk down memory lane. Recommended. Aud: P. (S. Graham)