The mighty Lisa Fischer returned to Evanston’s Space for a two-show engagement, accompanied once again by the wonderful Grand Baton.
It was January 2024 when Lisa Fischer last performed at Space. That time, she was joined by Ranky Tanky. On this outing she was joined by long-time collaborators Grand Baton. There’s never a shortage of fans waiting to jump on tickets the moment they go on sale for a Lisa Fischer show in the Chicago area. For this reason, she typically performs two shows on the same evening. Not only does she tend to sell out both shows, but the fact that she can sing and perform with the same energy for each of them is just as impressive.
Lisa Fischer’s voice is truly remarkable and one of a kind. No matter how many times you see her perform live (and we’ve seen her a lot!), you still get blown away by the power and the precision she possesses. If ever there’s someone who fully utilizes their voice as an instrument, it’s Lisa. The way she effortlessly utilizes two microphones to add texture and depth to her performance is a real treat to experience.
You’ll be hard-pressed to find anyone who looks as happy on stage as Fischer. Throughout the show, she was beaming non-stop which was reciprocated by everyone in attendance. When we say there’s something special about these shows, we can’t emphasize it enough. There’ll always be songs that you know as Lisa and the guys put their own spin on hits such as The Rolling Stones’ “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” Led Zeppelin’s “Rock and Roll,” and Police’s “Message In A Bottle.”
As much as Lisa Fischer is an impeccable performer and can single-handedly capture your full and undivided attention, this is not a one-person show. There’s an extra dash of magic added when she teams up with Grand Baton. JC Maillard is the musical director of the ensemble. He adds harmonies to Lisa’s vocals, as well as accompanying with some beautiful guitar work, and even brought out an electric banjo at one point. Drummer Theirry Arpino was positioned up front with his ample-sized drum kit but also managed to venture out from behind it when he took a more stripped-back approach with a little session playing the cajon (or drum box to you and me). Rounding out the three-piece band was Richie Goods on bass. It was a close call as to who had the best headwear between Richie and Lisa. The jury is still out on that one.
This is one of those shows where no matter what kind of week you’re having, it’s all left at the door. They’re fun, they’re relaxing, and you can’t help but smile back whenever Lisa flashes those pearly whites of hers. The only time things felt emotional, and rightly so, was when they performed “Killing Me Softly” and dedicated it to the late Roberta Flack.
Lisa Fischer is not one of those artists who takes to the road for months at a time, so if you do see a date scheduled near you, jump on it.
LISA FISCHER
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