“font-size: small; font-family: Calibri;”>When Sade emerged on the Scottrade stage Thursday night, walking up a hidden staircase with military-like precision, it was clear that the foundation was being laid for an illustrative musical journey.
“font-size: small; font-family: Calibri;”>With each step, the 7-piece band and 2 male backing vocalists rose from the ground on platforms as they played the intro to the appropriately title track of their latest album, “Soldier of Love.” In a sheer black mock turtleneck, matching black pants, pony tail and signature red lipstick, the band’s namesake served quiet thrills with simple head nods and gestures. To the average concert enthusiast, one would expect an overstated concert presentation, full of dancing and side shows. But for Sade, a few guitar licks, a melodic piano chord, and soaring notes on the saxophone did more than enough to entice and entrance the moderately attended audience for their nearly two hour set.
“font-size: small; font-family: Calibri;”>After a brief show of appreciation for being patient while on their almost ten year hiatus, the band then entered into “Your Love Is King,” “Skin,” and “Kiss of Love.” In efforts to set the mood for each song selection, an enlarged projection screen was used showing videos that ranged from silhouetted dance sequences to scenic shots of the New York skyline. “Love Is Found,” “In Another Time,” and “Smooth Operator” all transitioned into place as the band changed into 1940s themed costuming. In suits and fedoras, the band then proceeded into “Jezebel,” “Bring Me Home,” and “Is It A Crime”, the latter of which garnered great crowd enthusiasm. Staging also transitioned from a large shear cloak which briefly housed the band and used to project imagery to large red drapery that was slung over the stage. It was “Love Is Stronger Than Pride” that found the usually husky and subdued lead vocalist showcasing her vocal chops as she built towards climatic belts all the while retaining herself just as quickly. Backed by a “Sade Live Tonight in St. Louis” marquee, “All About Love,” “Paradise,” and “Nothing Can Come Between Us” ensued as the two male background vocalist took center stage to allow for the lead’s costume change. Reappearing in a white gown, “Morning Bird,” “King of Sorrows,” “Sweetest Taboo”, and “Moon and Sky” succeeded finding Sade most seductive with soft swivels of her hips and ‘come hither’ glances. “Pearls,” “No Ordinary Love,” “By Your Side,” with and encore of “Cherish The Day” all concluded a set that sustained the classy, melodic, and enthralling sound that make up Sade.
“font-size: small; font-family: Calibri;”>Soul Singer John Legend gave a less memorable showing that included a 7 piece band and three backing vocalists. He offered such selections as Adele’s “Rolling In The Deep,” “Alright,” “Let’s Get Lifted,” “Ordinary People” and “Green Light. Although inciting some audience interest, his hour long set felt mostly listless and lacking character. His lethargic movements through song selections – while vocally appeasing – seemed more of unenthused reach than an effort that drew audiences in. It was as if he’d been labeled as just a concert opener and decided to perform accordingly.
