Jimmy Webb & the Webb Brothers
Prague, Saturday 21Jimmy Webb has been in the biz since the mid-1960s. During that time, the 62-year-old has penned a handful of platinum-selling hits. He also had six kids, three of whom put together the literally named Webb Brothers, yet Saturday night was the first time he had shared the stage with his sons to play live. Ever. For the sheer improbability of the moment, the rest of the setting wasn’t really up to moment. The sound in the cellar venue was less than stellar, and the longish sound check made for a remarkably short set. Rather than mar the showcase, however, it just made it seem that much more like the packed house was privy to a unique rehearsal. Plus, the hallmark of something so undeniably cool is that it’s hard to ruin. Watching Webb swap vocals with his sons on “Galveston” was a genuine treat, and it only got better watching him take the full turn doing “Wichita Lineman.” The Webbs have been recording together, so while “Adios” might have seemed like a natural closer, the family needs an “Hola,” as it’s more apropos moving forward.
This article appears in March 27 • 2009.