Jack Johnson and G Love in Orlando

Thursday, 26 August 2010 12:00

Jack Johnson, G Love, and ALO made a stop at Orlando’s Amway Arena Tuesday night and put on the kind of chilled-out, laid-back show you would expect them to.

Story and Photos by John Davisson

 

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ALO took the stage first with a subdued set that approached jam band territory without going too far. After ALO, G Love (without the Special Sauce) played a solo set that combined blues tones with the Philly soul sound of some of his previous material, including a stomping Robert Johnson cover. Even though it was just G Love on guitar and harmonica, it was an entertaining set.

However, everybody in the arena was there for surfer troubadour Jack Johnson, who delivered a fine set of laid-back tunes and catchy hooks. Outnumbering the men at the show, women especially seemed to appreciate his vibe.

Jack was jovial throughout, chatting with the fans, including some who came from Israel for the show. Some lucky audience members won a contest allowing them to watch the show on stage, and Jack dedicated “Upside Down” (off the Curious George soundtrack) to a child he saw on a father’s shoulders in the crowd.

Jack’s style incorporates pop, reggae, and even a hint of hip hop, but it all seems to mesh effortlessly into his own style. In addition to Jack’s hits, there were a few surprises during the set including The Cars’ “Just What I Needed,” Steve Miller’s “The Joker,” and Jimmy Buffett’s “A Pirate Looks at 40.” He also covered Paula Fuga’s “Country Road” with Paula joining him onstage. G Love joined him onstage for “Rodeo Clowns,” and ALO joined him for the encore.

If you missed thes show but still want to catch G Love and similar acts, the Blackwater Music Festival in Live Oak is the perfect opportunity. The festival is going on Thursday through Saturday and also features JJ Grey & Mofro, Disco Biscuits, and Slightly Stoopid.