Singer, songwriter and pianist Norah Jones took the virtual stage on June 12th to perform her seventh studio album Pick Me Up Off the Floor in its entirety. Fans from around the world anxiously awaited the start of the concert, one even writing in the public chat: “It’s six in the morning where I’m from. Worth it for Norah.”
Norah Jones is known for incorporating pop, orchestral and blues genres into her jazz style. Set in a quaint studio adorned with string lights, Norah was joined by musicians Brian Blade on drums, Tony Scherr on bass and Mazz Swift on violin. The simple yet beautiful backdrop allowed the audience to focus on Jones’ shining vocals. While Norah Jones did not welcome fans to the event nor address audience members at all, the show still had an intimate feel.
The opening track, “How I Weep,” was smooth in nature and consistent in melody. “Flame Twin” featured gentle yet expressive drumming that added to Jones’ strong vocals. The song concluded with a light, dreamy piano outro. On the sweet “Hurts To Be Alone,” backing vocals added a layer of complexity to the tune. Jones’ emotional delivery of the melancholy “Heartbroken, Day After” was ethereal and flowed well into “Say No More.” The jazzy fifth song of the concert included an intoxicating musical accompaniment.
The wistful backing vocals on “This Life” gave the song a choir-like sound. “To Live” kicked off with an upbeat and bright intro. The opening to “I’m Alive” brought a distinct country/blues-inspired sound to the set. On the slightly ominous “Were You Watching?,” Jones’ delivery of the repetitive lyrics was dizzying in the best way. The penultimate song of the concert, “Stumble On My Way,” played like a soft lullaby. Jones slowed down the tempo for the final tune, “Heaven Above.” The beautiful piano part was reminiscent of soft raindrops as Jones’ calming voice guided listeners through the soft piece. As the screen slowly faded to black, fans expressed their gratitude to Jones for performing an online concert towards the end of a global lockdown.
This show did not have fancy lighting, an elaborate stage design nor any exciting guest appearances. It did have highly skilled musicians enjoying themselves while playing meaningful, well-written songs.
Set List:
Photo Credit: Sharon Alagna
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