Venue in Holland bounces on Michael Franti’s Healing Power of Music
Tonight at the venue the Effenaar in Eindhoven (Holland) Michael Franti & Spearhead prove that their music – a mix of hip hop, funk, reggae, r & b, folk and rock – is for the people. Along with his great band Franti knows how to bring the frenzied audience in complete ecstasy. The venue in Eindhoven really rocks to its very foundations. What a live performance, what a vibe and what a positive energy! For all those who were not present at this concert it’s certainly true that they have missed a beautiful and memorable musical party.
Right from the start it’s party time at the Effenaar. Like in the mindblowing and rock oriented song Yell Fire!, title track of the 2006 album. Recorded after a trip through the Middle East that Franti made to try and understand the prevailing conflicts in an endeavor to contribute to peace. This trip through Iraq, Israel and the Palestinian territories is cinematicly documented in the great film I Know I’m Not Alone.
During Yell Fire! Franti mixes with the frenzied crowd for the first time to dance, sing, jump, cheer and hug with them. But above all, to share. And that’s pure and sincere. The loving and socially conscious Franti is a real people person. With his charismatic personality and purity he’s able to give every individual the feeling to be special. During the show Franti frequently mingles with the people throughout the venue looking for interaction with his public. His music is clearly for the people: for All People.
Family Affair
One of many great moments presents itself as all musicians join Franti at the front of the stage and awesome guitarist Jason Bowman picks up an acoustic guitar. Then they play a beautiful acoustic version of Hey World with Nigerian Spearhead drummer Manas Itene on percussion. Surprisingly he takes some of the lead vocals with his beautiful voice. Itene previously played with reggae artists and bands such as Sugar Minott, Frankie Paul, Sister Carol and The Itals.
With All The Freaky People Franti and band prove they can play R & B with the same ease. In it there’s a key role for great bassist Carl Young. Franti and Young have worked together for about twenty years now. For a moment this song takes a great short cut to the classic Family Affair by Sly & The Family Stone. The subsequent more reggae-like All I Want Is You shows the versatility of Franti and his men. And later on – during the lovely summer song Sound Of Sunshine – the throwing of big yellow balloons in the audience that bounce above the crowd only adds further to the wild party feeling. Because Party Time it is!
However, there are also moments of serious nature. Like when Franti tells a moving story about Steven and Hope before playing Closer To You. This couple gets a huge blow to process when Steven is diagnosed with the incurable and fatal muscle disorder ALS. Despite the bitter knowing that Steven will die within a few years he asks Hope to marry him. Her agreement not only demonstrates courage, it also defines The Power of Love.
Do It For Love
Partly based on this story Franti sets up the Do It For The Love Foundation for people and children with a life-threatening illness and wounded war veterans. With the aim to give these people and their families and caregivers musical joy, hope and a beautiful and lasting memory through the healing power of music. It’s nice to see that there are quit some people here tonight by invitation of the foundation.
Later in the set Franti also shares a personal and touching story with the audience as he reveals that his youngest son Ade is recently diagnosed with an incurable kidney disease. The following song Franti passionately dedicates to his son Ade. To add even more power to the song Franti invites some children on stage.
What prevails of tonight’s show – next to a great positive vibe – is The Joy of Music and The Celebration of Life. Michael Franti is undeniably a very special, warm and loving person. But he’s also a gifted musician and songwriter who knows to give hope and joy to all the people around the world with his musical message of love, peace, harmony and social justice.
Everyone who attended tonight’s show are now ready for the upcoming summer and know: I’m Alive!. And witnessed an absolutely unforgettable evening with an amazing live-show. Surely – and rightly – the Effenaar can mark a memorable concert. Michael Franti and band: Many thanks!
