Todd in the 'Mouth of the Rat' (Boca Raton)

Todd put on a great solo show in the unlikely new venue of Mizner Park Amphitheater, in Boca Raton. However, the venue was even more unlikely for a rock band such as the Pretenders or previously booked Strokes! In fact, as I was making my way back through the mixed-use pricey residences and outdoor mall, Chrissie Hynde could be heard clear as a bell running the band through the oncore of "Middle of the Road" a block or so away.

Yeah, it was very cold by South Florida standards. I felt bad for the Baby Grand sitting out there waiting, uncovered in the dampness. Todd finally came out to the not yet filled auditorium. "Love of the Common Man", "Cliche" and "Lysistrada" were great to see and hear. The latter took on new meaning, as I heard an obvious Pretenders fan singing along in the chorus. Todd's voice and cadence were 'the usual', but his playing and showmanship were impecible. Unfortunately, his acoustic guit. had that tinney DI, Ovation sound, but seemed to find more bottom during the surprises (for me) of "I Don't Want to Tie You Down" and Lennon's "...Hide Your Love Away".

Although he put down his piano playing, it's still his best stuff in this solo format. "Compassion" was a great surprise. However, I could have done without the show-y tunes such as "Song for a Viking" and "Free, Male and 21". Also, since it has been a few years since I've seen Todd live (last w/ Ringo), it was good to hear "Bang..." ala Hawaii.

All in all - a great show - Go Hammerheads!

Nezrok