Leo Kottke

Leo was in his usual rare form. His apparent random banter with the audience was in top form. Especially two stories: one about a pair of performers playing to an empty hall and doing a curtain call ... and his female pianist female distant relative who lived in Germany after WWI named Kottke who passed away at the age of 23. On the music front he was crisp and wonderful. Thanks to the Birchmere for having a fantastic sound system. You could hear his fingers sliding up and down the strings as he played. Yes, it was a night without Pamela Brown (I missed her) and at no time did the play list hit an Eight Mile High. There were many classic on the play list and some seldom heard old "side B's". Finally - I have always loved the Birchmere as a venue, but they continue to sink to new lows. NO PITCHERS OF WATER ON THE TABLES - THEY FORCE YOU TO BUY EXPENSIVE BOTTLES OF WATER. LUDICROUS! They have also dumbed down the menu and limited the selections WITH ALL THE PRICES RAISED $2.00 to $3.00 or more. My humble advice - eat before you go. Not worth it any more. Its a real shame that for a few pennies of profit the Birchmere has slipped to a new low of mediocrity.

I've seen Leo Kottke play live 10 times dating back to 1975 and this was the best one yet. He has to be one of the greatest guitar players ever and yet he still seems to be getting better. Sort of scary really that he can keep pushing his playing and showmanship up a notch after all the many years and shows. The songs are mostly all familiar by now, but his unbelievable precision and technical ability were amazing but without sacrificing the beauty and the art. Truly worth seeing this national treasure while he is still out there to be seen.

There is nothing better than when you get a combination of a "best on the planet" artist like Leo Kottke and a best in class venue like the Birchmere in Alexandria VA. Leo mesmerized the audience of nearly 500 with so many of his classics. His trademark wit and humor were in full force; and his new story (new to me anyway) about playing the Zoo was to die for. I've followed Leo from his earliest days, and already can't wait for him to come to town again.

The show opened with 2 gentlemen on a spartan stage. One was a guitar player and vocalist, the other played the violin, accordion, and keyboards. There were no introductions, they just got right to their music. Many members of the audience thought it was Leo and an accompanist. Both were great musicians. After 45 minutes of playing they walked off stage with a comment barely heard about the Leo Kottke band and not getting to play in such a nice joint very often. Stage hands came out and cleared the stage. The audience were wondering what they had gotten for their money, some putting on coats and getting ready to leave when a stage hand brings out a chair and a singe mike. Guess there is more to the concert... Leo came out and did a great job entertaining the audience with his guitar playing and amusing, rambling, stories. It is great that he can talk and tune at the same time, as he did a lot of on stage retuning. A few throat clearings on mike were apologized for, but mildly irritating. His voice actually sounded better than what I remember from the 70's. I think I remember one reviewer referring to his 'mouth full of gravel' sound. The audio from the balcony was barely acceptable. Especially the vocals mikes. A bit short in both volume and quality. At my age I don't often ask for more volume. All in all a great evening of entertainment, but missing a bit of garnish.

I always rave about Leo Kottke. Have seen his show every year. He was well, Leo. Is there any more to say? See him and you will never forget him or his music. Now about the State Theatre. I had front row tickets so expected some respect - ok? - walked into the state and was practically accosted by one of the guards (usher in disguise) asking me to open my jacket (why? I asked - to see if you have a camera in there!) Unbelieveable!! Then he told me - no cameras!. That's it. That is the State Theatre. Had a lousy experience there with the ushers last year too (dont remember what, don't want to) Don't like the State Theatre but what are you going to do? Leo is a must every year, so put up with State and try to ignore the staff. I was really frustrated there was a warm up group. Not my style - accordian, violin, guitar - 2 men- one singing off key. Different and I was drifting off into a dreamstate when 35 minutes later I was relieved to hear them pack up their instruments. A long intermission before Leo started. Relief from the earlier music for me. It seemed a lot of folk appreciated their music so I'm happy for them, just not for me. OK, then. That's it.

Leo, being fully in the senior citizen category - such as myself - still maintains an astounding ability to be creative. Being well acquaintainted with his music since the early 70's, each time I've seen him, he's still able to turn the music upside down or inside out by playing old favorites in different ways. He still loves performing and it's obvious. He is hilarious to listen to - the stories paint impressions he's gathered and they display his ability as a human to still be amazed at things he observes which is the life blood of any good artist. His observations are astute but sincere and, for me he is grounded in reality - you know when he's home he takes out the trash or does dishes - the things of life that other artists become disconnected from. It was well worth the hundred plus mile drive. The theater - the Orpheum is about a hundred years old - recently restored and the sound was the best I've ever heard. Great venue. Something about the way those old halls were designed.

I've never met Leo Kottke, but I've listened to him play and sing since at least the early seventies. We've both got some miles on us since those days, but I really enjoyed hearing his 12 string sing last night. Leo's self deprecating style and his colorful stories made it seem like an old friend came to town and just happened to have his guitar in the back seat. I know that musicians enjoy his syncopated style and a range of music that seem to match one for any and every mood. For me, I just find myself closing my eyes and taking it all in, remembering times long ago when I would come in from guiding canoe trips in northern Minnesota and Ontario, and when many of my fellow guides would play guitar and sing all the songs we could think of into the wee hours of the night. Yeah, I'd recommend an evening with Leo Kottke - an old friend that I have never met.

Not only is Leo Kottke an extremely talented entertainer, the intimacy of the SF Orpheum Theater made you feel like he was playing just for you and a group of your friends. The music, the sounds, the stories are all part of great experience that no acoustic guitar music lover would want to miss.

Holy Moley! What a show. 2 encores. and still wanting more. Leo has not lost a step. What an artist, I'm amazed by his talent.

Been a long time fan and happily brought my children to share in this fantastic concert.

If you've never seen Leo Kottke you're missing out on a great show. Make that two great shows because between playing guitar pieces with jaw-dropping technique Leo entertains the audience with funny, rambling monologues that are a delight to absorb! The man is seriously funny as well as being an amazing guitar virtuoso. The best discription I can give of his segues is that's it's like he's talking to himself and we get to listen in. What a character! And the music is utterly amazing -- he can sound like three guitarists by himself (and make it look effortless). Kottke's a great entertainer and my wife and I agree it was the most enjoyable show we've ever seen. Though we've listened to his music for years this was our first show and we won't miss another if we can help it!

I feel extremely fortunate to have seen Leo once again. His is a true guitar virtuoso and his playing seems almost magical. His dry non sequitur ramblings between songs are worth the price of admission. They provide a window into the mind of this musical genius.

Saw him first in the early 70's - totally enjoyable, this time same response, totally enjoyable (although he talked a little more than I had remembered from the '70's.)

An unforgettable evening with a musical master! Kotke's musical talent was teamed with neighborly wit and storytelling charm that made you feel you were sitting around the living room as he spun his magic. The Variety Playhouse provided the perfect intimate setting to kick back and enjoy his guitar mastery interspersed with oft-disjointed tales that made the musical genius both human and approachable to the audience.

Have been a fan of Kottke for 32+ years; my wife selected "Why Ask Why?" for our wedding!!! We saw him once before. We were in Alexandria on a business trip and saw he was scheduled for the Birchmere. Decided to go and were not disappointed in anything!!! He continues to fascinate us with his talent!! Had a great time in a great place!!! Will check it out next time in the area.

Fortunately for us, Leo doesn't let his age get much in the way of his playing. He didn't play quite as fast as I've seen in previous performances (via youtube), but still has great sound and his music is still lively. Though the performane was shorter than I expected, I can't find it in me to fault the man, he still came out for an encore.

Leo Kottke is an amazing guitar player. It would be great just to hear the music, and you can do that on CD. It's even better to realize that he has a sneakily subversive sense of humor which shows up in his introductions (and even in some of the lyrics). The live show definitely adds value!

Long-time and new fans alike were entranced by Leo Kottke's recent performance at the Birchmere, in Alexandria, VA. His brief but powerful set was vintage Kottke - rich with genius guitar phrasings, unique vocals, and the ever-present and liberally interspersed witty storytelling that have become trademarks of one of the finest acoustic guitarists on the planet. Still touring more than four decades since he became a near-cult favorite, Kottke has lost little, if any, technical skills over the years, and his folksy 'stream-of-consciousness' banter with the audience was as captivating and entertaining as ever. On the business end of the guitar, Kottke relies on sheer genius and his mastery of both six and twelve-string instruments to sustain his on-stage brilliance, shunning the hodgepodge of hocus-pocus electronics many less talented performers might choose to employ in concert. Although he provided the requisite audience-demanded curtain call performance, this observer's only regret was that Kottke did not play as much older material from his vast body of work as I would have liked to hear. But, alas, it was a phenomenal virtuoso performance, and, indeed, a night 'wannabe' guitarists like me will long remember!

I have seen Leo perform many times - first back in the late 70's at Boston Symphony Hall in Massachusetts. His music, muses, and style are at both timely and timeless. The Birchmere is my favorite venue to see Leo. He is totally at ease with the audience and the relative small club atmosphere feeds his connection with his fans. Leo played many of his trademark works - and dusted off some seldom played selections that made us all try to remember exactly what album they came from ... do you remember 33 1/3 albums? His performances are taxing - we always wish that the set was longer - this time he did go beyond the pretty standard 90 minutes.

It was wonderful. He played great and non-stop for hours. The crowd was entranced.

A superb musician and artist. Probably the greatest 12 string guitar player ever. His stories are quirky and funny. Very worthwhile show. You will be entertained.

Just the man and his guitars, but superb playing, pulling songs out of multiple decades. Glad to have that gravelling voice and halting rhetoric!

Had always hoped top see Leo live & was not disappointed.

I have followed Leo Kottke since the first time I saw him at St.Mary,s college, MD. He has always been phenomenal and has,through the years, become a great comic story teller. I'd say he's " paid his dues" and has never made me feel that I didn't get my moneys worth. Just an all around great guy, like John Prine or Tom Rush,

I have been a Leo Kottke fan since 1971 when I first saw him perform at Tulagi's in Boulder, CO. Though a little grayer since then, Leo is still one of the premier guitar performers in the world. Don'y miss a chance to see him, and he will amaze you with his virtuosity.

Still the premier acoustic guitar virtuoso on planet, and hilarious to boot. Sadly, the crowd was small an appeared to all be over 40. Too bad younger music fans aren't catching on.

I actually went Friday night so my buddy had someone to go with...he's been a long time Leo fan... I've heard him many times thru the years and I've been a guitar player most of my life... so I just couldn't resist... It was a great decision... Leo was "SIMPLY" marvelous... when we arrived & saw a single mike stand & guitar on stage... plugged into the house PA... that had us wondering... But it was great... the venue is one of the best & this was truly like having Leo live... at your house!!! He is a master musician & story teller... with a bag full of great stories, and humor... it was an unforgettable evening... he's a wonderfully talented man... I m glad I went & would definitely go again! Great music and a few good laughs

I've been enjoying seeing Leo perform since 1972. Though the hair maybe a bit thinner and grayer, and a few more lines on his face, his mastery of the 6 & 12 string guitar are nothing short of amazing. His material remains fresh as he's constantly offerring variations on his well-known classics as well as new songs. His running commentary on life and other weighty matters lets him interact on a personal level with his audience. My only fear is that a day will come when he decides he's had enough of the travel and motels, and as he put it last night, to simply "Stop. Do nothing for a while." If that day should come we'll all be the poorer for it.

Leo Kottke has been an amazing guitarist for as long as I can remember, I saw him many years ago, and I am so happy that I got to watch him again.

Both Leo and Keller are amazing musicians, great humorists, and thoroughly entertaining. Leo is an amazing composer and fingerstyle player and Keller is styled from the mold of Michael Hedges with a cutting wit that is non-stop. His piano talent is incredible as well.

fans of keller will be delighted at his irreverent behaviors in otherwise subdued venues.

We have been fans of Leo Kottke for nearly forty years. This performance did not disappoint! His nimble fingers make the guitar sound amazing. His singing is full and mellow and we really loved his choice of songs. Leo's patter between songs is quirky and funny and very enjoyable. We were not familiar with Keller Williams before the concert and were pleasantly surprised by his high level of musicianship.

I had a visit from an old friend Saturday. Leo Kottke played at the Wilson Theater in Milwaukee and he was as entertaining as always. Leo tells a lot of stories or just whatever is on his mind, and I enjoy that immensely. His music skills are one of a kind and that remains true to this day. What I see his fingers do and what my ears hear don't always seem the same as he is amazing at getting so much sound out of his guitar with so little apparent effort. His musicianship and humor never disappoint me.

We loved the Leo Kottke concert at Liberty Hall. What a great intimate venue to appreciate this man and his guitar. Not to mention he could have been a comedian in his other life. Love his great stories! What a talent he is!

His voice is rough. His guitar work is amazing. His stories tie a lot of the experience together. Saw Leo Kottke play in the 70's and it is a wonderful aging process to watch. I like the extrovert version over the introvert from the early days.

If you've never seen Leo live, don't miss this experience. He is a true master and one of the most original performers and songwriters to come along in decades. His personality is surprising his talent is mezmorizing and his musical range is broad. One man one stool and two guitars an evening you won't soon forget. He compares himself to Beiber and Lady GaGa with a tongue in cheek attitude. He's humble, charming and unpredictable.

I have been listening to Leo for 35 years and seen him maybe 8 or 9 times and it is always a real treat. I love the simplicity of him, 2 guitars and a microphone. In person it is a bonus to get the deadpan humor and hilarious stories. He has such a repertoire that I always am disappointed by something left out (Rings, Room at the Top of the Stairs, Tiny Island) and reminded of something I haven't heard in awhile. Liberty Hall is a great place to see a show like this; small, acoustically well balanced and easy to get to. Nice staff too.

I've grown up with him having attended over a dozen of his concerts. His style has definitely changed due to health issues. His mind has not however.

Leo Kottke is amazing! Liberty Hall, Lawrence, KS has great acoustics! The only regret is Leo did not play longer!!

I had never seen Leo live alone, so was delightfully surprised at his droll humor. Music was Leo music. Those who follow him know what to expect, and were I am certain, pleased. The sound system in the venue was excellent and clean. I would have liked the stage lighting to be brighter.

Age is showing but still an excellent guitarist! Worth the time and money.

I've seen Leo Kottke several times since the 70s, and his skills blew me away each time--but there was something really special about this show. Maybe it's that I'm older and can more appreciate what I'm hearing; maybe it's that after all these decades, he still sounds awesome. Very personable on stage the way he recounts stories, jokes, explains meanings, and even tries to casually figure out songs he hasn't played in years makes you feel like you're hanging out in the basement with your best friend who happens to be a killer guitar player.

Leo Kottke is a real American treasure. Just a wonderful experience.

Saw him 40 years ago. He got older. I stayed the same.

I have played guitar and TRIED to sing my whole life. He does both with incorporated humor like nobody I've ever seen.

Great concert and thanks to the Variety for keeping prices in the reasonable range. If I had to nitpick one of the finest guitar-payers anywhere, a little less plucking and a little more slide would be good.

Like the rest of us, Leo ain't getting any younger! Even so, he still does things with a hollow body guitar like nobody else. Guitar as a solo instrument is rare in American music, and Leo's a master. His selection of vocal materials to match his unique baritone voice is spot on, and his wandering narratives tie the songs together, well, like nobody else!

I try to see Leo every time he plays in the area. For those who may deem him too ramblingly windy, hey- you know what you're in for at a Leo Kottke show. Do I wish he talked less and played more....maybe just a pinch but I forgive him for verbal excess on the basis of his guitar artistry. I also personally enjoyed the context he gave us for many of the songs. He played a wonderfully constructed, musically rich show using one 6 string guitar, one 12 string guitar and his own bad self. I remain a huge fan and consider this show one of the quiet gems of my 2015 concert season.

Great guitar but too much talk between songs. Leo envisions himself a real raconteur... he's not. As an intro to 4 cents we learned of his college, military and ROTC careers as well as his experiences with hitchhiking all leading up to his having 4 cents in his pocket... whew!

An evening with Leo Kotke is always time well spent. We have enjoyed his music since he started recording and have previously gone to his concerts in Woodstock Il for many many years. We're so very happy he comes to Ponte Vedra! His life stories and his music are wonderful. The fact he never has a preset play list always means we hear a variety of what he wants to play and discuss. Thank you Leo once again fot a wonderful even, until next year! Could only criticize the events tight spacing and non staggered seating. Acoustics, sound great!

This was our first time to the venue and we will definately be going back.

Leo Kottke was great. Outstandng guitar playing, of course, and good story telling. The Ponte Vedra Music HAll is an excellent venue we always enjoy

I enjoyed the concert. I had never heard of Leo before. But we bought tickets and enjoyed a nice evening of music.

This is the fourth time I've seen Leo Kottke and he's never disappointed. The music is beautiful and moving at times. I've been lucky enough to see some of the great electric guitar players of my generation, but Kottke's way and style with acoustical guitars is unique and masterful. The man and his music are timeless.

Great guitarist, wonderful stories, terrific interpaly between these two components.

When I saw him perform solo Thurs evening for the first time in years I thought he hadn't lost a thing. After viewing some 40 year old videos on line, I'd have to concede he's slowed down a notch in that time, but he has lost none of the talent and his sense of humor has continued to grow on me. The New York Times once called him a favorite for the gold medal if they ever make guitar playing an Olympic event. I'd say that is still true. His control over the instrument and his timing have, if anything, improved over the years. If you have never seen him live, catch him next time he's in the area. If you haven't seen him in a while, catch him next time he's in the area. You won't be disappointed.

Leo Kottke played very well and did a lot of my favorite songs. He did talk Quite a bit which is part of his unique personality but he could have played more and talked less. He also only did one encore song. I guess being on the touring road for 40 years takes some of the mystique out of performing. Overall, it was a good show if not a great one. I have seen him seven times over a 40 year span.

Leo Kottke performed like the legend he is - he was funny, amazingly talented and just a delight to listen to! The Birchmere was excellent - the food was great, the service incredible - I have no idea how they serve that many people so fast and get it all right! Very fine experience - looking forward to my next visit there.

Excellent show. Very entertaining and amazing guitar playing.

This was a gift for the mate and we both enjoyed it immensely. It was our first time at the Birchmere, and I, being an Austinite at heart, thought it very well done indeed. Leo was great, worth the drive and great deal. HIGHLY recommend

This was the first time I've seen Leo Kottke in person. I've been following his music for years and was thrilled to have the opportunity to see him in person. He is a true genius on the guitar, a master of the guitar, a brilliant player, who also is able to entertain the audience with his anecdotes and life experiences. I hope to be able to see him again soon.

What a great pair to co-star - the Arts Center has great acoustics and the sound quality was second to none. I will definitely sign up to see Leo next time he comes to town, AND I will definitely revisit the SMPAC again.

Nice intimate setting to hear one of the best guitar players alive. Good crowd and a great show!

I was so entertained from beginning to end that I could not believe how much time had gone by. Watched a few youtubes before we went to get warmed up, but those didn't come close. Would go back again tonight. Also love to see performances at Duling Hall.

This is the third time I've been able to see him and he has never disappointed me in any of those three shows.

Leo Kottke was amazing. He still has it--the guitar skill, the sense of humor. I would invite him to dinner (and then hope he brought his guitar to play for me)! While a small venue, it was set up just right for this size audience. I'm glad I got seats as close as I did to be able to 'watch' the playing too. The audience, for the most part of course, was 'mature' meaning (other than the guy who kept yelling out FreeBird and should have been ejected) they knew how to sit and listen and appreciate what this artist was presenting to us. I have been a fan since college days (late 70s) and this was a great reminder to return to my collection (and add to it) and share with my children.

The intimate setting of Bears Den at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel lent itself to an intimate sit down with Leo Kottke. It was like you invited him over for a cuppa and he brought along his six string and twelve string with his personal metal alloy slide. We were more then an audience, we were his favorite friends. The concert was so laid back, Leo's virtuosity illuminated the living room space. His riffs and repetoire were amazing.

Noisy drunk patrons almost ruined the night. Fortunately, they weren't Leo Kottke fans. In fact there seemed to be numerous patrons who really did not know who Leo Kottke Is. Our seats were extras placed in the back. There were a lot of empty seats. So, why were our seats extras? Could have moved us up but the ushers were too busy talking as well. Not going to the Bear's Den again! Leo did his usual fine performance but the atmosphere sucked and he knew it.

Well, I've been a Leo fan since 1971 and I've gone to at least one concert of his a year. On Saturday night, Leo was very relaxed from the moment he came out on stage. He played his old standards, starting out with Pamela Brown and finishing up with Ring, Ring. He would play a few songs and tell a story; play a few more, more stories. You could see that he was having a great time. This theatre was not as big as some others I've been to and, probably because it was at Niagara Falls, it wasn't a sold out show. He played without a break for 90 minutes, said 'goodnight' and then came out for an encore. Great personality.

I have been a fan of Leo Kottke since I was 10 years old (1969) when my Dad played his 6 & 12 string album for me. It was at that moment, I knew I wanted to play guitar. Leo was as good Saturday as he was when I first saw him in the '70's. The only disappointment was the poor showing of audience members. Last year it was full. At least we could move closer :). I will never forget getting his autograph at De Anza Jr. College around 1980 where I ushered and he commented how he signed my album just like he signs his checks. I will never tire of Leo, truly an original and always my guitar hero.

Leo Kottke (6/14/13) was excellent, as he always has been. Apparently he's not touring to promote a new CD or anything (I wish he were) since he was not doing a bunch of stuff I'd never heard before. All the songs were ones from different stages in the 40 years I've been seeing his shows and buying his music. That might sound boring, but he is constantly changing everything he plays and sings so it is never the same as heard before and always fresh and new.. His hilarious patter is the part of the show that is always new stuff. I've never heard him say anything a second time. I doubt he could make it doing stand-up comedy, but his shows are always a joy because of the humor. I'll be there the next time he's in town, new stuff or not.

Leo is the best of the best. His story telling will have you in tears of laughter. His guitar playing will leave you speechless.

Leo Kottke has been a unique show every time I see him. Reminds me of a Steven Wright monologue when he is tuning between songs. He makes a 6 string sound like 12 and a 12 string sound like 24.

Not only was Leo musically excellent, he was funny to boot. If you like his music, you may enjoy his humor onstage as well.

Leo Kottke show one of the best i've seen. Very talented and entertaining performance.

Leo Kottke is a veteran performer with close to 50 years of recording and performing under his belt, yet his performances crackle with energy - he's hardly slowed down at all. He got the show off to a rousing start with "Airproofing", a fast paced, intricate, and lengthy piece for the 12 string guitar that he takes just a bit slower than he did 25 years ago, but still impresses with the technical ability needed to pull it off. It's as if he's saying, "you wonder if I can still do this, well check this out!" Leo has so many strong pieces in his repetoire that one can't help but be disappointed that he can't play them all (I was especially looking forward to "Louise" which he didn't perform) but he managed to work in some surprises, like "The Fisherman" which I don't think he has performed regularly in concert for many years. His performance of "Last Steam Engine Train" gave some insight into his philosophy of performing: he tries to perform this piece differently each night, semi-improvising some sections - tonight he made a few mistakes and ended the song sooner than he usually does. He then explained to the audience that he "collapsed" in the middle section, and continued that he'd rather try something different than to do a "mummified" , perfectly rote performance - "at least if you crash and burn, there's something to watch." I have to say that if he hadn't called attention to it and cut the song short, I don't think I would have noticed, his playing was still that good, and whatever the problem was, he kept going to the abbreviated end. If you've seen Leo in concert, seen clips of him on YouTube, or heard his live recordings, you know that his humourous monologues are as entertaining as his playing, and this show was no exception. Even if you've heard some of the material before, Leo never tells the same story exactly the same way twice, and his delivery is so droll that even old chestnuts don't fail to amuse. And there's the chance that you'll hear something you haven't before, like his story of an acquaintance who had hallucinations of loons and leprechauns - very funny. The theater was sold out, Leo played with energy and imagination, his monologues were as funny as always. If you get the chance and have any interest at all, try to see Leo in concert.

What a show! Leo is an incredible musician as well as an entertaining story teller and guitar spiritualist.

Came to hear Kottke legendary guitar and was not disappointed. The guy is amazing on the 12 string, virtuosity next to none. The instrumentals were spectacular. The singing is just Kottke and that was kept to minimum. The between songs banter and stories were interesting.

Leo Kottke is a consummate musician and hilariously funny story teller. My wife and I have attended many of his performances over the years and never been disappointed. He's the real deal and just as good as ever. Actually 5 stars for Leo's performance. Gave it 4 stars due the somewhat lower quality sound.

Complex 12 string guitar playing, creative and expressive compositions, but last but not least - A down to earth, funny, and talented musician.

He's a very funny guy I just wish he knew how to play guitar

It's been some time since I have seen Leo but as usual he was great. His stories and playing are still spot on. He is a special talent and if you have never seen him you owe it to yourself to witness a true master at his craft.

Have seen Leo about a dozen times and he never disappoints. p.s. security did a valiant job trying to stop picture takers.

I have followed Leo Kottke for over 30 years but have never seen him in person to perform. I assumed from listening to his songs that most of his recordings were with background guitarist too. Was amazed that it was all him in person to come up with an unbelievable experience. He is an amazing talent. As long as he comes back to Atlanta, you can count me in!

Leo did an incredible job. His voice was a bit better 10 - 15 years ago, but his stories are still incredible. He also seemed to tailor his playlist to my preference, even including one of my all time favorites Pamela Brown. I will definitely go again next time he comes to the DC area!

Leo Kottke is a great combination of amazing guitar playing, great story telling, and soulful singing. The Birchmere is a great venue, with good food, not a bad seat in the house, and excellent staff. The combination made for a wonderful evening.

Leo played a wonderful set that featured a generous helping of vocals, from "Julie's House" to "Rings" and "Louise." The instrumentals emphasized early work, but Leo's stylistic choices varied from a beautiful rendering of "Little Martha" as he would have played it twenty years ago or more, to slower, more meditative versions of some of his great early songs from the 60s. Of course, the evening was salted with some of Leo's familiar amusing oral digressions about his songs and his life on the road, past and present. He knows what his audience wants and he cheerfully delivers, as an artist and, in some sense, as a familiar, welcome friend who's stopped in for the evening. A good time was had by all.

I love this guy's sense of humor... and of course he's a virtuoso. Leo is a born entertainer and I'll watch his show every time it comes to town.

I was not familiar with Leo Kottke when I went to the concert. I thoroughly enjoyed his music and his wit!!! Very entertaining!

I've seen Kottke six or more times over the years. First it was to go whiteness his unparalleled guitar playing. Now its because he's become so damn entertaining. He's kind of a curmudgeonly midwestern satirist and a bit of Gary Larson with his twisted sense of reality. His delivery and comedic timing is right up there with his musical timing. And he's still one hell of a musician! I'll keep going as long as he keeps playing!

Gewerbegebiet!!! I've seen Leo every chance I could get since my first concert with him in the mid-70's in Santa Barbara, and he never fails to amaze and amuse me. You could hear a pin drop while he's playing as everyone is mesmerized by his astounding guitar playing, and peals of laughter when he wanders into story-telling mode. Thank you Leo for another wonderful evening!!!

Had not seen him in 30 years. He is still a great unique musician and great storyteller!

Because the event was poorly advertized and on a Thursday evening, the audience was relatively small allowing us to gather in close, as in a less formal setting. His re-pore with the audience was great and I liked the fact that it was a one man show with no drums or backup to cover for mistakes etc. It was just Leo, never missing a beat. It demonstrated, to me, how great a talent he truly is. Loved it!

The concert was great. The hall was excellent. The seats were fantastic, great view.

We attended Leo's concert last Sunday night. To say we were delighted and impressed is a severe understatement. This is the fourth time I have seen him in concert and he just keeps getting better. The audio mix at the Ponte Vedre Concert Hall was perfect and there was a very tasteful lighting effect. His artistry is something one must experience to appreciate-words do not do his performance justice. He is also a very funny man and had the audience in stitches throughout the show (well, while he was tuning or retuning, nobody laughed while he was playing). He his an artist of the highest caliber!

Both Leo Kottke and Loudin Wainwright came to play and they both did. Amazing story tellers and artists.

That was a phenomenal evening of guitar music. Leo Kottke is even better than I remembered from college.

Came to hear great guitar playing. Didn't get much of that. Kottke played a song "I'll kill you on Christmas day". That was the deciding factor that lead us to leave at intermission. Wanted more blues got sophomoric frat party songs and dog stories. The worst performance I have ever been to.

The show at Ellie Caulkins was amazing. It was a great gift to see a master artist. Excellent venue.

Leo Kottke's stories are really strange, his vocals are not so good but he is an amazing guitarist.