4/16/05 Pompano Beach Amphitheater

Just a short concert note – Todd obviously took his poor performance in Melbourne to heart, because this was the most engaged, spot-on professional, entertaining and crowd-pleasing Todd show I have seen in a very long time. Todd was in perfect voice and near flawless – by far the best piano performance of “Compassion” in at least 20 years. He also made some interesting song choices, despite the hit-friendly format he is working within on this tour. For example, he delivered a chilling and intimate take on “Tiny Demons,” and a reworked but successful acoustic version of “Afterlife” from Liars. His take on “Beloved Infidel” was a highlight, very committed and personal. I especially appreciated his gestures to the crowd – thanking us all at the end for “opening our ears.” This was truly showman-Todd at work, charming, in control, enjoying himself and working the crowd. Because Joe Jackson was relatively aloof and stiff, Todd really picked up the slack and made sure everyone had a great time – including four Todd newbies I brought along who were impressed and fully engaged by his performance. I was moved by his “Pretending to Care” at the end, joined by Ethel, which brought the house down. One nit – Todd, please pick up the green SG if you are going to close with “Black Maria” – it just doesn’t work with an acoustic guitar, despite the furious string runs by Ethel, which were spectacular.