Richard Thompson

We see RT any time we can; usually 3-4 times a year. He never disappoints. Great singer-songwriter and entertainer. But his guitar playing is unparalleled.

Richard Thompson put on a great solo performance at Hoyt Sherman Place, Des Moines, on Friday, February 21st. Opening for Richard was his son, Teddy, who also played a fabulous solo set. We were fortunate enough to have a meet-and-greet with Richard, who, like many performers, is a bit shy in a one-on-one situation (he had also just finished his set, so he was undoubtedly tired). Even with the rush of new found eager friends, Richard was gentle, kind and humble. Richard has been named one of the top 20 guitarists of all time by Rolling Stone. It is certainly deserved. He had a guitar solo in basically every song he performed, which was greatly appreciated by the almost-capacity crowd. Richard also did a good job of introducing songs, giving the kernel of an idea that led to most of his best work. Teddy also did an amazing job with his opening set. I was a little disappointed that he didn t perform Shine So Bright , which appears to be about growing up in a star-struck rock \u2018n roll household (although Teddy introduced one song by mentioning his grandma having raised him and his two sisters, so Richard and Linda must have been on the road a lot throughout Teddy s childhood). Teddy s material is as dark as anyone I ve heard, and based on his passion and emotion on stage, he relives the genesis of the material each time he plays it, which leads to the conclusion that he s somewhat personally tortured by his life to this point. Then again, which great artist doesn t have a wealth of pain to fall back on to inspire genius. Teddy also had a nice mix of self-deprecating humor in the introductions to his songs. Richard brought Teddy out for the encore, which was awesome. They play well together, with Richard deferring to Teddy for much of the encore, which was rewarding for not only those in attendance, but also appeared to be a bit cathartic for those on stage, too. What a great night, with a father and son who both have extreme passion for what they do, and that s playing rock \u2018n roll with heart\u2026and a tremendous amount of soul.

Richard Thompson put on a great performance. Would see him again in a heartbeat.

Its a got to be tougher to play an all-request set than when the artist has planned and prepared for what he will play in advance. Richard sounded a tiny bit rusty on the first two songs he played (at least compared to his high standards). But the man is simply brilliant. He did start with that finger-workout of a song, 1952 Vincent Black Lightning. He's sixty now and I dread the time when he will no longer be as fast and nimble on the strings of his guitar as he still is. I want to keep seeing him play live for the rest of my life. He's always great, and he was great on the night. the two hours went by so fast because time does fly when you are having fun - and hearing great music. Long live RT.

Great show but for a request only show people asked for crap songs by other artist when Richard Thompson has a good 500 excellent songs of his own to pick from.

Another great show from the gifted Richard Thomposon. RT's excellent songs, singing and exquisite guitar play were all in ample display Friday night in Montalvo at his first of three all request shows. What is also apparent is his ability to improvise and knowledge of classic rock standards, as he navigated through a minefield of requests for tunes by the Who, Beatles, Buddy Holly, Monkees and Britney Spears! In an all request show there are bound to be a few hiccups, but RT's wit kept the audience smiling (and shouting forgotten lines) through songs he obviously hadn't played in years.

Richard Thompson was fantastic--the requests from the audience that structured the show were sketchy. Perhaps next time I'd like to see the show with his playlist...

He'll never be a "grammy" star because he is too good. The only people that will read this are already RT fans, so it's kind of pointless. The show was yet another wonderful evening in a lifetime of amazing shows. The greatest singer/guitar combo musician of our generation. Sorry Dylan, Springsteen, et.al., you can't hold a candle to RT's guitar playing.

The concert was a nice combination of Wairight's humor and Thompson's virtuosity.

Richard Thompson solo - the best way to see him! Went very early to get a seat (didn't realize it was a totally seated event) and copped a fantastic view. Really liked the way Richard and Loudon did a couple of numbers together.

Two great contrasts. The showmanship and clever words of Loudon and the incredible guitar work and biting lyrics of Richard. Loudon loves the crowd and dipped into a wide range of songs, although focusing heavily on recent ones related to the "New Depression." Richard's guitar work is still unbelievable. You close your eyes and you absolutely believe there's two guitarists--or more. You open and watch the master produce the sounds alone. More chatter this show from Richard than in the past. Unfortunately, the two only played together for four songs--two at the end of the first set (by Loudon) and two as the encore after Richard. Would have liked to have seen more interplay. But a great evening by two masters.

Both sets were great, and they were both very entertaining. I wish they would play more songs together, and then a couple more together for the encore. With the list of songs they both know, 2 or 3 just was not enough from each guys set, and then only 2 at the end, again, was not quite enough. Hey, I am greedy.

On a wet, blustery night in Chicago, Mr thompson once again showed us lucky attendees why he is one of the best guitar players alive. The man is incredible and a joy to see in concert no matter what the venue.

Richard Thompson's sound guy did an excellent job and put it over the top for us!

Great Show! Both musicians played a nice selection of songs from their vast collections. They played a few songs together, and had hilarious interactions with the audience that made the evening intimate and enjoyable. They even came out for a meet and greet after each show and were kind and responsive to all their fans.

Had never been a Loudon fan (went for Richard)--but I am now! Wonderful!...What can I say about Richard Thompson that hasn't been said--brings tears to my eyes--incomparable! Just a fun, feel-good event.

I discovered RT about a year and a half ago while in UK & have become a huge fan. Seeing him live far exceeded my expectations. His voice was crystal clear and his guitar work is absolutely AMAZING.. The Vic in Chicago was a great setting - my first time there - drove up from Indianapolis & well worth the trip! I hope he comes to Indy some day

A wonderful evening of amazing music by 2 masters of the troubador tradition

Vocal Amplfication was awful.Ruined the night.should get new sound man.

Wainwright had a couple of fun songs, but his mannerisms are just too weird. His joking manner in promoting his own cd's got old quickly, and the show would have been better with simply Richard Thompson who was spectacular as always. However, after seeing RT three times now in Michigan, he's pretty much done the same basic set. RT's last show in Michigan at The Ark was amazing since it was just him for two hours, but his time was limited in sharing with Loudon, so RT's set was the basic 'Dad's Gonna Kill Me', ''52 Vincent,' Johnny's Far Away.' RT alone would have garnered a higher rating, but hopefully he returns solo next year and changes his basic set a bit. An all request show, which he's done in California, would be worth the $65 ticket I felt was overpriced for last night's show with Loud.

Tremendous show. We had seen Loudon at Traverse City in July and he covered some of the same ground, but he never fails to entertain. Richard Thompson was incredible. How one man can get so much out of a guitar, and sing like he does is scary. The billing promised so much and they delivered all of it. We are fortunate to have these 2 performers and to have them come to our area. They did not appear to take half of a solo performance, rather, they each seemed to play for an acceptable duration, and with the intermission, it was like 2 shows in terms of content.

You can tell true talent when a person alone on stage with just a guitar can move an entire theater of people. Incredible talent and magnificent guitar paying was seen by all!

The show was great!!! This was the first time I had seen Loudon and he put on a great show. Very entertaining and a humourous perspective on many of the current issues we are dealing with everyday. I have seen Richard Thompson 5 or 6 times and he always puts on a fantastic show. It was a very enjoyable evening.

Was a terrific show. Heard my favorites and found some new ones too. Loud played some great songs for this little recession we found ourselves in. All in all they were a great duo and made for one entertaining night of music.

Enjoyed most everything about Loud & Rich. Amps were up a bit more for Rich - so louder than "Loud." Both are obviously talented, but RT is an amazing guitar player - certainly "rich" in that regard. Evening was full of humor, politics, sentiment - some wonderful song writing and performing. Very engaging - never a dull moment. It was clear many of the attendees were familiar with their work.

Simply put- Loud can still write em' and RIch can still play AND write 'em.......Just a fab show.....

First of all let me say that all of the late arrivals looking to skip the opening act were sadly surprised to discover that Richard opened for himself because David Paisley had Visa problems. He opened with a compact half hour on acoustic that left me breathless. He was in short magnificent. Kudos to the venue also. Beautiful place to see a show if you ever have the opportunity. I was in the 3rd row of the balcony and was right on top of the stage. Acoustics were spot on. Richard took a short break and then reappeared with his combo (Bass and Drums) with Strat in hand and proceeded to tear through a set that was well paced with some selections from his new album and some of his better known classics. This man is like a fine wine to be savored for as long as we possibly can. An artists artist. His guitar work is hypnotic. If you get a chance to see him don't miss it . You will regret it if you do. Oh,and make sure you get there for the opening act.

The show started with R T on stage playing solo acoustic. His very distinctive guitar playing style was so clear and just beautiful to listen to. He played a bout 40 minutes solo. Then after an intermission, the Trio came on. They played very well together, very tight through 2 encores!

I've seen Richard Thompson many times and he never fails to put on a great show. This show was highlighted by the fact that his opening act cancelled so he opened his own show (with the comment "this exposure could be good for his career") by playing a beautiful solo acoustic set. This was followed by a strong, hot set of just Thompson and a bass player (his brother, I think ) and a fabulous drummer. Power trio with celtic flavor and long eclectic jams.

I've had the pleasure of seeing & hearing Richard Thompson many times over the past 30 years. His songwriting is second to none and his performances just shine with great guitar work and that strong baritone vocal. Richard and his band showed off a couple songs from his new CD, Still, as well as old favorites such as "Tear Stained Letter", "Al Bowlly's in Heaven" and "1952 Vincent Black Lightning". If you've not had a chance to take a ride on the "Wall of Death" with Richard, you're missing a tremendous performer and musician. What are you waiting for?

We have never, ever, been less than overjoyed with a Thompson performance!

Wow! I have been to so many concerts over the years and have seen acts from great to mediocre to boring. The Richard Thompson Trio is in the list of better-than-expected fantastic shows. It's rare to be left breathless, but I was. There isn't much I can say above and beyond the great reviews I've read, except perhaps two minor items. I'm a long time fan, but this isn't hero worship. Richard Thompson is the real deal in music business that badly needs more craftsmen. The second is that I took my girlfriend who had not heard of him before and she was floored (and she does not impress easily). Let's keep building the fan base!

An incredible show with 2 encores and an audience left begging for a third. One of the best & unique musicians of our era--great songs, and his guitar solos are electrifying and intricate--a performance that must be experienced live.

What a fantastic show! I try to see him any opportunity I get. I have seen some of his acoustic shows over recent years, but had not seen one of his electric tours in about 17 years. It was worth the wait. His scheduled opener could not make it due to visa issues and Thompson instead "opened" for himself with an acoustic set. We were treated to the best of both worlds. He played for nearly 2 1/2 hours, including 3 encores. I was thrilled to hear Why Must I Plead, which was a request yelled out by an audience member. The set list was a good mix of tunes from his upcoming (this week?) release "Still", and his extensive back catalog, going back to Fairport Convention days. As always, his wit shines through in both his songs and stage banter. My girlfriend and I were really intrigued by the drummer, Michael Jerome, who clearly put his all into the drumming; his whole body was animated as he played. Taras Prodaniuk was excellent on bass, alternating between fretted and fretless electric basses. It was nice to see audience members who were not familiar with RT transformed into fans.I love this guy,

We are huge Richard Thompson fans, and would have loved to have heard him play and sing. But the noise level was so high that almost all the words were completely unintelligible. We had to cover our ears for the second half of the show because it sounded so much better when it wasn't just screaming into a mike with ear-damaging accompaniment. The hard-core fans know all the words so it's not an issue, but the show was NOT a thing of beauty. I would rule it out except for very hard-core enthusiasts. A shame. Those in our group new to Richard Thompson couldn't believe I dragged them to such an awful show. And the review in the Herald was a rave....go figure.

RT is a musician's musician, an artist's artist. And for Boston to luck out and see him be his own opener with a 7-song acoustic set including Ghost, Valerie, and Dimming! Bloody magical!!!

Fantastic concert. Richard opened for himself and was terrific playing acoustically. Then the Trio was fantastic. Richard has great stage presence, is one of the best guitar players in the world, and his band was fabulous. Great night.

Amazing concert from start to finish, made perfect at a venue like the Variety!!

The Variety Playhouse is the best place for a concert. Richard Thompson's set list was a great mix of older songs and newer songs. The two hour show seemed to go by quickly. The songs were great, but the stage banter was hilarious. If he never picked up a guitar, he could of made a living as a stand up comedian.

Richard Thompson is a phenomenal guitarist and singer/songwriter. His song list is unmatched by other artists and he gets better with age. It is a privilege to see him perform. I only wish I could see him a couple of times each year. He played his new material along with several older songs. He kindly did two encores and I would have been happy with another two hours of music. It's easy to see why he has such a following around the world.

I have followed Richard Thompson since the 70 's and he just keeps getting better. His performance with his band mates to form the Richard Thompson Trio was so tight . The evening was beyond my expectations. So glad I didn't miss this

Richard Thompson is a master songwriter and virtuoso guitarist, and he brings his songs to life with an expressive baritone that is equally capable of breaking your heart or making you laugh heartily. Above all, he makes you think! Just a wonderful, unforgettable evening of entertainment.

Great performance by a very down to earth singer/songwriter/guitarist. I greatly enjoyed this show as this was a solo performance with just Richard Thompson alone on stage singing with just an acoustic guitar.The theater itself was very comfortable with great acoustics and the sound system projected the singing and guitar playing very clearly and audible making it a pleasure to be at this show.Richard himself seemed very comfortable with the audience and the theater and was very humorous in between songs.There was a minor heckler who shouted out "wait for me Richard" to which he responded "Is that one of my songs?, Don't remember it" and then improvised a short song on the spot with those lyrics.The show was very well worth my time & money and Richard was very grateful and appreciative of the positive audience response.

I'd never seen Richard Thompson before. I've been a fan for about 10 years. NJPAC was a bit of a trip for us (about 75 minutes) but it was well worth it as the Theater was beautiful. Richard's set was amazing - every song a perfect jewel, a treatise on life, love & the human condition. Thrilling & soothing, exciting & reflective, a better musical evening I've not had in long time. If you don't know Richard Thompson's music you are MISSING OUT. His CD's are awesome, but he is the consummate performer with wonderful audience interaction, anecdotes, and everything you would expect from a world class musician. Do yourself a favor - buy a CD, go to a show.

as the wall street journal said in their editorial, richard thompson is one of the most important musicians since world war 11-he lived up to that billing on april 22

I've seen Richard Thompson many times, acoustic and electric, and he never disappoints. An under-appreciated singer/songwriter, guitar virtuoso who is amazing to hear and watch. As though that's not enough, his amusing wit and rapport with the audience just adds to a great evening of entertainment. Looking forward to his show at Town Hall in a couple months.

Hard to believe one man & an acoustic guitar making all that sound. He should be on everyone's bucket list to see live at least once,he will not disappoint.

We see Richard Thompson whenever he's playing near us. His shows are always great. He plays his songs like it's the first time he's ever played them, with energy and always something just a bit different to keep our interest up. His rendition of my favorite song, 1952 Vincent Black Lightning was awesome.

Both Dar Williams and Richard Thompson are great musicians. We would have loved it if Dar did a couple more numbers and Richard a few less. But, overall, a really nice evening.

Great great performance in every way. Truly one of the best concerts we've been to this year and we've seen many.

RT just so smooth. Will catch him next time he comes.

Richard was phenomenal as usual. We love him in an acoustic setting. He dug through his back catalog (including Sloth from Fairport Convention) and his guitar playing was stellar. Opening act Dar Williams was also superb. Love her voice and songwriting. A great evening all around.

One of the best guitarists ever!! Please bring him back again.

This was my first time seeing Richard Thompson and what an incredible guitarist he is! Performing an acoustic show, standing the entire time, he made his guitar sound like a full band. As someone in the audience shouted "Where do you keep your third hand?" An accomplished musician in his own right, Richard's son Teddy opened the show and joined his dad for an encore.

Richard Thompson has flown under the mass market radar for so long, that he's as famous for that as for his incredible talent. But let's put the spotlight back where it belongs-his is one of the greatest careers in rock history. Every guitar player, if not every casual rock fan, knows who he is, and is in awe. Saturday night in Madison was a revelation. His version of "Valerie" was the most incendiary acoustic version I have ever heard, and on the much jazzier "Al Bowlly's in Heaven" he switched gears effortlessly to Charlie Christian territory, and again soloed without pause or hesitation or-thought! Music just flows from in fingers in ways that cannot be explained. When he solos one can hear breathing stop! His singing is still an acquired taste to many, but is perfectly in keeping with his unique style, influences, and repertoire. On the other hand, if you like impeccable singing, his son, Teddy, shows the vocal gene is strong in the next generation. His opening set was terrific, and the shared encore of "Temptation" and "The Price of Love" was a family triumph.

Hoyt Sherman was the perfect venue for this acoustic concert. I went into this concert with high expectations and were those expectations blown away! Teddy opened up for his father and truly set the stage. He was so fabulous that I bought his EP on the spot. Then his father, Richard, performed for 2 hours! What a legend to see! Truly a great experience.

Over 30 years of following Richard, and many shows attended, this may have been his best concert ever. The band was tight, RT was charming as always, and the play list interesting and compelling. The musicianship was unparalled.

How is it that Richard Thompson is so under appreciated? An absolutely amazing show. This man does it all - amazing, soulful, dynamic guitar work, powerful and expressive vocals, and thoughtful, funny, biting lyrics. A great mix of older RT classics and new gems. The jam that closes "Can't Win" was smoking hot. Can't say enough about the band, either - a wonderful rhythm section to match RT.

Richard was 5 stars. Simply a phenomenal talent after all these years. The HOB venue is just awful. They need chairs or stools or something. I guess if you know what your getting into it's one thing but it wasn't clear when I ordered that I would need to stand the whole time.

A 1952 Vincent Black Lightning is a cantankerous old classic motorcycle. It needs meticulous tuning and careful maintenance to remain in top performance. Fortunately it is clear that Richard has been going beyond the basics to keep in top form. He is undiminished in wit, dexterity, and voice over these many years. My first time seeing him - among a room full of music nerds - it was a great a great way to spend the Sunday after Jazz Fest. One minor issue is that the late middle-aged male audience's enthusiasm for this performer made it very difficult to get a beverage and return to your spot. Many did not want to give way due to their ardor to matriculate to the front of the room. Elbows had to be thrown. If there is a folk guitarist who can incite a fistic encounter among music nerds - this is him.

Richard was at his inimitable best. Had my rapt attention and involvement from the opening number to the final encore. What I found objectionable was a an elderly usher coming to relay a request from a geriatric audience member behind me to demand that I cease clapping during musical numbers. I must say that this is the first time I was ever told that audience participation was frowned upon during any of my concertgoing experiences. And I've been to thousands of shows over the course of my lifetime. I wasn't shouting or acting inebriated or anything of the sort, but some fuddy-duddy found my clapping along irritating, I gather, so I ceased and desisted, knowing that I would be facing some sort of confrontation with some ego riddled old Blue Meanie should I persist. So I behaved myself and watched the rest of the show with my hands folded calmly in my lap. I should have known that the venue would frown on any show of spontaneity or musical communion from the audience. I ws chuckling to myself before the show as one of the the warm up recorded tunes was Dylan's"Knockin on Heaven's Door," and I looked around at the blue and gray headed audience and thought to myself "What an appropriatetitle to play for this audience." Some of the members would probably make it to the Pearly Gates before sunrise. The typical audience at the Carolina Thater look as if they've arrived via tour bus from one of Del Webb's Golden Meccas from somewhere in the Southeast.

A solo acoustic performance from a tremendous catalogue of well crafted songs sung even more soulfully than the studio recordings.

Great show. He is at the top of his game. More people need to be aware of who he is. He has influenced many guitarist and is a great songwriter.

Richard Thompson demonstrated his virtuosity on the guitar. great sound.great songs. great voice.

Richard Thompson has been writing and playing music for 50 years. Unfortunately he works in the out of favor folk rock genre. His literary, poetic lyrics and world class guitar playing isn't as popular as overproduced meaningless pop music. SAD!

I'm glad I finally got to see Richard Thompson after so many years. It's even more apparent in a live setting how incredible a musician and singer he is, with a great sense of humor. Age has not diminished any talents, instead seems to get better like a fine single malt. Gurf Morlix was a pleasure as well, someone I've only heard of as a producer or player on Lucinda Williams work. Great guitar player and story teller.

Oh my! One man, one guitar. Add a generous portion of virtuosity and a wonderful facility with words and you get a 100 minutes of emotional roller coaster ride from heartbreaking ballads through Brechtian storytelling to flat out rockers. Richard Thompson is a master who held the audience completely in his sway for the whole show. Unforgettable!

A very enjoyable concert. I do wish I knew the title of the first song sung. this was the second RT concert I have attended and enjoyed this one much better than the one I went to in SF, which was with a full band. The sound was louder than needed and the set could have lasted longer (I wish). We enjoyed his humor and seemingly lack of over blown ego. Every song was done to perfection. The Blind Boys of Alabama were great fun. I think my favorite was Amazing Grace done to the tune of House of the Rising Son. However, the sound was deafeningly loud. I was glad we had ear plugs for most of their songs. They brought Richard Thompson out to join in on one song, which was a treat.

This concert was advertised with RT as the lead. All the pictures with the email events list from Ticketmaster and the venue all showed it the same way. RT with the Blind Boys of Alabama; not the other way around. What we got was the exact reverse. RT opened and was brilliant as usual( 5 starts for that). After he had played 4 or so songs if was becoming suspicious as to how the evening would play out. Not going to be time for the Blind Boys and for him to come back. He played for an hour and said Good night. The audience seemed bemused because there was no chance of a encore. The BBof A came next. OK but not what I wanted to end the evening on and from the large number of people that walked out I'd say we were not alone. Great set but a let down overall and we all felt mislead hence the rating for the concert.

Perhaps because he was opening for the Blind Boys of Alabama, he played a shorter set than usual. This translated to a wonderful selection of old favorites with two or three newer songs played beautifully. I've been going to RT concerts for many years and he is not fading at all with age. I'm trying to get in as many concerts as possible before age eventually does catch up to him.

Richard Thompson is a virtuoso guitar player and songwriter and was in great form at the Napa Theater. He connected with the audience well, performed wonderfully, and did several of our favorites, which was a treat. His guitar chops are amazing. ~~Red hair and black leather is my favorite color scheme~~ ~~She was a lost child, running wild...as long as there's no price on love I'll stay...and you wouldn't want me any other way~~

His guitar playing was amazing. I have never heard anyone play acoustic guitar so superbly. He's a master on the guitar and a master song writer. Loved his show.

Richard Thompson was, as always, great. That being said, if he appears with the Blind Boys of Alabama again, I will give it a pass. The two performers, while great in the case of Thompson, and good in terms of the Blind Boys, were oil and water and did not mix well, and as a combo, were a poor pairing overall. The good news was that Richard Thompson was up first, and if I had had the sense to leave early, I should have. The Blind Boys of Alabama were self aggrandizing gospel, which while decent, were really nothing new or terribly innovative. Thompson was able to lift and hold the crowd, and showed up large and ready to play in his amazing style and competence. I would rather have seen him by himself and do a longer set than with the BBoA. Good show, but a really strange mix of performers.

Great concert! Highly recommended! An incredibly talented and skilled artist.

Loved the concert-tremendous! Genius, talented musicians--all three. Met new fans-Super!! Loved seeing young people enjoying the music-phenomenal. Bar tending staff were friendly and capable-wonderful! These feet, ankles, knees and hips detest standing on cement for hours, though.

Richard is the finest guitarist living today. I have seen him almost 30 times since the 80's and he never disappoints. He OWNS that guitar and to this day amazes me with what he can do with it. He is a joy to watch on stage. His hilarious and self-deprecating banter with the audience (also evident in his lyrics) always seems spontaneous. Highly recommended!

While a not-so-well- kept secret, he remains un-well-known, and his devotees the better for it. @richardthompson and his mighty trio flashed brilliant, soared brisk, pathfound us all past the point of small returns. Much banter, cruise ship shanty and pained remorse, but when electricity surged, banter ebbed. Truth beckoned with a wink n smile, Collister harmony surprise, back catalog and fresh harvest, hail the conquering guitar-hero troubadour. @TeragramBallroom

I have enjoyed his music forever, and this was the first time I got to see him in concert. I was not disappointed. His opening act was himself delivering an acoustic set that included one of my favorites, when the spell is broken. Next came his electric guitar set with two other terrific musicians, a percussionist and bass player. Richard's lyrics and music along with his incredible guitar playing left me in awe. The three musicians together made for an unforgettable evening.

Richard started out with a solo acoustic set (he introduced himself as a "cheap opening act") that was very entertaining and an amazing display of his talent. He made so much musice by himself you started to wonder why he needed the accompaniment of the Trio. After a short pause, the Trio emerged and, frankly, blew the crowd away. Powerful and sensitive renditions of a wide range of material from his long, broad career. From Fairport Convention through the Trio's latest, "Still" the performance was impeccable. Michael and Taras are highly talented musicians (and vocalists) and provided complex, ethereal context for songs like "Al Bowlly's In Heaven" and "Broken Doll" as well as rocked the roof off on "Tear Stained Letter". the only frustration is that it is not possible for him to play all the songs you'd like to hear live in a reasonable concert timeframe. Richard was in a great mood and was talkative and humorous between songs, engaging the audience which slowly, but surely disengaged from their theater-style seats to dance in front of the stage and in the aisles by the encores (two of them!) The venue is not fancy, but comfortable, the sound was great and they had a very cool selection of refreshments and snacks in the lobby.

Richard had a great performance for this concert. It kicked off with the announcer introducing his "special guest"... Richard Thompson!! The crowd was most grateful. He then did the acoustic set that all had hoped for. To my surprise he was very chatty between numbers. The sad part is that the acoustics were NOT good: too much amplification and a very muddy sound. I could barely understand his spoken words or lyrics, and I was sitting in row J on the main level. I don't fault Richard, though I expected him to admonish the guys manning the board. Not the first time I've been to Presentation Hall but may be my last.

He was determined to put on a great show and he was successful. Good sense of humor also.

I first saw Richard Thompson in the 70's, and have seen him numerous times since. Each time, he has shown various styles. This show highlighted Richard's acoustic solo guitar and electric guitar work with a three piece band. He is still fast & smooth, as good a pure music show as it gets.

We go to hear RT any time he's in the area, at least twice a year. This concert was in part to promote his new album Still. We've hear a bunch of the songs at concerts earlier this year. He was amazing, as always. Quite impressed with the drummer, who I've seen with him once before.Sound quality could have been better, especially for the acoustic numnbers, but overall, a great concert!

How lucky were we...Richard Thompson acoustic was the opening act and Richard Thompson electric was the main act. Can't get any better than that! Have seen him many times. One of the most underrated guitar players of our lifetime...not to mention a great singer/songwriter and "witty" performer. If you get a chance catch him live...you will not be disappointed.

Richard Thompson is a marvel. He's a marvel to see, to hear, to absorb. He plays like no one else, whether electric or acoustic. His voice perfectly suits the songs he writes, and the overall experience is pretty much not to be believed. You close your eyes and you'd swear there were three guitarists up there. To top it off, he is really funny in an academic, intelligent way. If you've never seen him, run, not walk, to the next show. It's always my favorite event of the year.

Richard was on fire! Biggest surprise - Richard Thompson opened for himself so we got to hear an acoustic set of 7 songs.

The sound was amazing. Richard and Teddy were tremendous playing separately and absolutely sublime when they played together!

He and his son were amazing. They are a great musical family.

What an honor to see Richard Thompson. A founder of Fairport Convention, and half of the duo of Richard and Linda Thompson, someone that Rolling Stone voted one of the best guitarist ever in Hoyt Sherman. Guitar work that was amazing and his voice was very good. His son backed him up, and was also very good.

My husband has listened to Richard for many years, but this was my first time. Really enjoyed his music and his son as well. Overall it was a great show and performance by both men!

An outstanding solo acoustic performance by Richard Thompson. Well-suited to the intimate Hoyt Sherman Place, he was a captivating and engaging performer. RT has a very charming and affable stage presence and it was on full display Friday night. Readily taking requests and bantering with the audience, Richard makes the performance feel like it's happening in your living room. But what a performance! Showcasing his songwriting talents and otherworldly guitar mastery, he proved he doesn't need a full band to rock the house. Even on the acoustic guitar, his playing sounds like there are multiple instruments, totally filling the space with impeccable picking. He performed songs from throughout his career, including Fairport Convention. Personal favorites include: Misunderstood, Bees Wings and a hilarious sing-along version of Tear Stained Letter. Richard Thompson never fails to please.

Drove 4 hrs from South Dakota to see the show in Des Moines and it couldn't be happier. This is my fourth time seeing RT since the early 90s (2 acoustic and 2 with his band) and I think the quality of the acoustic shows has actually (somehow!) gotten better. It's amazing to me how he can fill the theater with sound using just his voice and acoustic guitar.

Good mix of songs. His son Teddy is also very talented.

Richard Thompson is a legend and this performance exceeded our expectations in every way. From Teddy Thompson's opening set to the 2nd encore, it was an incredible performance by the two of them. Crystal clear and powerful voices and the unequaled guitar playing left us awestruck.

Simply outstanding. His son Teddy was the opening act and was also terrific. Not only was he on top of his game, but the venue (Hoyt Sherman in Des Moines) had just the right combination of intimacy and community. DO NOT MISS RICHARD THOMPSON'S SOLO ACOUSTIC SHOW IF YOU ARE WITHIN 500 MILES OF HIS SHOW.

Terrible sound mixing job - not Richard's fault, I guess, but a little QC would have gone a long way. Nonetheless, flashes of brilliance & incredible guitar playing bogged down by full bore straight ahead way-too-loud no differentiation between vocals & guitar mix, both obnoxiously coming at you with no hints of dynamics & range, just like this sentence I just wrote;-) Blah. And Teddy Thompson needs a hint of self-esteem & a new lyric/song writer - great voice, plodding along also.

Richard is such a fine, creative, solid guitarist- puts me in mind of some great force like the north wind or some such. Then throw in that voice that has been well lived in with soul, pride, humbleness\u2026 one of my all time favorites, especially acoustically, as he was in this show. Just love the chord play in his progressions. Nice song choices, going way back to 70's at times, cuts off his newest album, a nod to Chuck B. who was playing down the street.

Had never seen Richard Thompson, or his son, Teddy, in concert and didn't know many of their songs, BUT, I thoroughly enjoyed the evening. They had the crowd cracking up with their between song banter. Their music is fun and enjoyable even hearing it for the first time. I would highly recommend seeing Richard, and, or Teddy, in concert if you get the chance.

I had never heard a single song from Richard Thompson prior to this performance--I didn't even know who he was--but my wife is a fan, so I got her tickets. I thought he put on a very good, very enjoyable show, and my wife loved it, so apparently he was true to what a fan would expect.

Richard Thompson never disappoints. His expertise on the acoustical guitar is second to none, and along with his haunting voice and poetic, story-telling lyrics--well, I can't get enough of him! His son, Teddy, who too is quite the entertainer, opened for Richard and then joined him again later in the show. Their vocals together were outstanding and garnered several curtain calls to finish up the evening. My first visit to the wonderful Pageant Theater more than surpassed my high expectations. A very lovely evening.