Matt Costa and his band, returning from a splendid world tour, headlined a sold out show at the legendary Troubadour in West Hollywood, CA on July 14, 2006. Two years ago at this historic venue, Costa was a relatively unknown opening act. Since then, it is no surprise that this talented folk/rock singer/songwriter has captured the affection, admiration, and respect of his audience. At the entryway before the concert, merchandise tables, housed in the bar, buzzed as fans grabbed for CD’s and t-shirts emblazoned with Costa’s whimsical, nature-inspired artwork and designs. Filling the upper and lower floors of the Troubadour to the brim, the eager, all-ages attendees squealed at the sight of the enormous pastel lime green backdrop with huge Matt Costa lettering and Songs We Sing imagery, draped on the stage. Opening for Costa were the Watson Twins, a female vocal duo, who “are actually twins…not just an advertising gimmick,” backed by an all-male band. Their set, a wholesome mix of folk, country, and a tinge of bluegrass, was low-key, until the final song whose spirit lifted the audience in preparation for the man of the hour.
As the youthful crowd anxiously pressed against the edge of the stage, Costa and company, Mitchell Townsend (guitar), Bill Carson (keyboards/bv), Harris Pittman (bass), and James Fletcher (drums), began the blissful one and a half hour set with Song We Sing’s seductive “Behind the Moon.” Beams of light and brightly hued silhouettes illuminated the cheery setting, and continued throughout the show, changing colors with the moods of each tunes. “Oh Dear” wooed audiences into frantic cheering and exuberant whistles, and “Sweet Thursday” highlighted the electric instrumentation that was miked perfectly to support but not overwhelm Matt Costa’s stellar vocals and moving lyrics. Reaching back a couple years to his self-titled debut, Matt Costa EP, the gifted troubadour enlivened the crowd with “Acting Like a Fool” a tune that remains a substantial, set staple. “Yellow Taxi’s” themes of waiting paralleled the anticipation that the crowd expressed before Costa’s appearance, and its charming rendition provided them with a memorable topic of “conversation.” The musical interlude that followed showcased a bluesy duel between Costa on acoustic guitar and Fletcher on drums, demonstrating notable improvisational skills and a genuine chemistry between the band members.
While lights were turned down to a sole spotlight and as the band relaxed in the background, Costa crooned the balladic, bittersweet, and beautiful “Astair” that remains a poignant favorite from Costa’s first release. Although the crowd had been singing along or at least mouthing most of the lyrics, Costa playfully encouraged fans to belt out “Sunshine,” a Songs We Sing single that brightened the mood, morphing into a sing-a-long sensation and capturing the innocence and sincerity of the 60’s. To cool down the summer heat, Costa sent shivers up fans’ spines with his angelic voice that echoed through the Troubadour on the wintry wonder, “Cold December.” The night would not be complete without a cover of “Hurdy Gurdy Man,” a nod to the Donovan Leitch (Sr.), better known as Donovan, who has profoundly inspired Costa’s sentiment, spirit, and sound. The tender and melancholy “Ballad of Miss Kate” from the newest Elasmosaurus EP that followed contrasted with the lighthearted and effervescent ballad, “Sweet Rose.” For the members of the audience who were 21+, an intoxicating “Whiskey and Wine” satisfied with its swaggering lilt, sultry melody, and sly reference to the lingering effects of imbibing. While the live version of “These Arms” seemed heavier and more electrified than the CD recording, the performance did not muddle Costa’s impressive vocals that caused fans to swoon on the downbeat. Costa covered another rock legend, Buddy Holly, with ”Well Alright,” revealing Costa’s indisputable respect for his musical predecessors. To close the set, Costa invited the Watson Twins onstage for “Miss Magnolia,” an entertaining and rousing all-star jam.
After Matt Costa and his band exited the stage with many “Thank yous,” the crowd demanded an encore with three-syllable chants of, “MATT COS-TA!” for nearly five minutes. Screaming devotees welcomed back the performers who launched into “I Tried.” Costa encountered a little trouble when he sang the last stanza first, but revealed his true character as he responded with a witty joke, laughed at his guffaw, began anew, and finished with endearing poise. “Wash Away,” which features shimmering electric guitar arpeggios by Townsend that accompany Costa’s dazzling voice, serenaded listeners with heart-wrenching lyrics. During the final selection, “Lullaby,” a soothing and soulful track from the Elasmosaurus EP and a highlight of the “Curious George” movie soundtrack, a worn-out Costa, considering it was his second night at the Troubadour that weekend, understandably erred on a chord-progression. Buoyed by the ever-growing dedication of his karaokeing fans, his keen sense of humor, and genuine humility, Costa recovered gracefully and concluded the evening’s set on the most positive glimmering note, creating a show that overflowed with engaging rapport and sweet sensations that will captivate for a long time to come.
Matt Costa and his band will continue to be headliners on their U.S. and Canadian Tour starting August 1, in Aspen, Colorado. Please visit www.mattcosta.com and www.myspace.com/mattcosta for music clips, press, videos, message boards, merchandise, pictures, and the listing of shows in the city near you!
