(archived 8/16/02)

MUSIC REVIEW - David Dondero, acoustic storytelling from scattered US cities ...

David Dondero played a spirited acoustic set that included some good storytelling

A corkscrew to the head will stop just about anyone in their tracks ... including a lazy, summer crowd at the Chukker.

David Dondero was the first of a trio of shows (w/ Trucker & In Limbo) hosted by the Chukker on Friday, July 26th. His stylish guitar playing and captivating story-telling brought to mind the strengths of musicians like Johnathon Richman, Townes Van Zandt and Bob Dylan ... though any direct comparison to such legends would be foolhardy.

But like those artists, Dondero's style is one of its own. The music and lyrics are inspired and fun to listen to, stirring strange, dark emotions. One song is about a fellow restaurant worker in New Orleans, who got jumped by three "gangsters." They wanted his tip money and launched into a 3-on-1 beatdown ... until he jabbed one of them in the head with his wine tool. The corkscrew to the head saved him and his hard earned dough.

Another song is about a preacher from Pensacola, FL who tried to convert a bunch of beer-drinking, loud music loving youngsters to God by firing up a chainsaw and threatening them. It was a common sight at this locale. The preacher was, of course, arrested.

These stories are true ... for the most part. Dondero says he does embellish at times. The mixture of fact and fiction makes for good storytelling. Dondero delivered in strong fashion on this night, drawing claps and cheers from the 20 or so Tuscaloosans lucky enough to be paying attention. A definite must-hear.

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David Dondero - acoustic storytelling from scattered places

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