I can say that Joni Mitchell’s long-awaited return to the stage in Los Angeles was nothing short of a triumph. The iconic singer-songwriter took over the Hollywood Bowl for two sold-out “Joni Jam” concerts, delivering a once-in-a-lifetime performance filled with stunning classics, thrilling deep cuts, and plenty of laughter.
A masterful, career-spanning set
Mitchell, 80, commanded the stage for nearly three hours, surrounded by an all-star cast of musicians including Brandi Carlile, Jacob Collier, Lucius, Blake Mills, and Robin Pecknold. The setlist was a true rarity, as Mitchell dug deep into her catalog, performing songs that she had never before played live.
“I don’t wanna freak anybody out, but you just listened to Joni Mitchell sing ‘Hejira,'” Carlile exclaimed to the rapt audience as Mitchell let out one of her signature throaty laughs.
Indeed, the concert was a masterclass in Mitchell’s songwriting brilliance, as she effortlessly moved between fan favorites like “Carey” and lesser-known gems such as “The Sire of Sorrow (Job’s Sad Song),” a haunting number that borrows themes from the biblical book of Job.
Intimate, collaborative spirit
The stage setup at the Hollywood Bowl evoked an intimate, collaborative vibe, with Mitchell seated in a throne-like armchair as the musical royalty she is. Carlile, acting as both a thoughtful host and a fervent fan, made sure the audience understood the significance of every moment.
“Joni, look at that crowd,” Carlile said, marveling at the 17,000-strong audience that had gathered to witness Mitchell’s return.
The Joni Jam band members, seated on couches and chairs around Mitchell, seamlessly blended their voices and instruments, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that felt more like a private gathering than a massive concert.
Highlights and Surprises
Among the many highlights of the evening was Mitchell’s live debut of “The Sire of Sorrow (Job’s Sad Song),” a profound and musically sophisticated number that set the tone for the first half of the show.
“That’s the story of Job—’Job’s Sad Song,'” Mitchell explained to the audience with characteristic humor.
Rare live performances of “God Must Be a Boogie Man” from Mitchell’s 1979 album “Mingus” and a stunning rendition of “Both Sides Now” showcased the raw power of her weathered, yet still captivating, vocals.
A Political Statement
Mitchell’s political leanings were also on full display during the show, as she took a jab at former President Donald Trump while performing the song “Dog Eat Dog.”
“Snakebite evangelists and racketeers and bigwig financiers… like Donald Trump,” Mitchell sang before bluntly declaring, “Fuck Donald Trump,” to a roar of approval from the crowd.
The moment was a reminder that even after all these years, Mitchell’s art remains as politically and socially conscious as ever, unafraid to confront the realities of the world around her.
A Triumphant Comeback
For many in attendance, the Hollywood Bowl concerts marked the first time they had seen Mitchell perform live in over two decades. The singer-songwriter’s return to the stage has been a gradual process, with her first public performance since her 2015 aneurysm occurring at the Newport Folk Festival in 2022.
But on this night, Mitchell was firmly in command, her voice and presence as captivating as ever. As Carlile aptly put it, “Joni’s about to destroy us right now, guys,” before Mitchell delivered a breathtaking rendition of “A Case of You” that left the audience spellbound.
A Lasting Legacy
Joni Mitchell’s influence on popular music is undeniable, and her Hollywood Bowl performances served as a powerful reminder of her enduring artistry and relevance. From the intimate, collaborative spirit of the Joni Jam to the political edge of her lyrics, Mitchell’s concert was a true masterclass in the power of music to inspire, provoke, and connect.
As the show closed with a group singalong of “The Circle Game,” it was clear that Mitchell’s legacy will continue to resonate for generations to come. This was not just a concert but a celebration of a true icon, whose impact on the musical landscape remains as profound as ever.
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