Steve Forbert charmed the crowd at Free At Noon

Steve Forbert is no stranger to performing. The veteran singer-songwriter has been charming listeners since 1979, and with a goldmine of Americana songs to pick from, his Free At Noon was a fun and energy-packed affair. It didn’t take much from Forbert to get the crowd going – there was no shortage of dedicated fans mouthing words to all the songs and yelling out praises.

An expert at storytelling, Forbert let his songs do the talking, enthusiastically jumping into songs without warning, as if daring the crowd to keep up with him. Even an act of “shameless promotion” came with theatrics, as he promoted his upcoming album by pulling a vinyl copy of the album out from behind a table. His good nature and wit only energized the room, as a shout of “Steve Forbert, you’re the man!” echoed around the room, followed by a series of “What he said’s.”

However, it wasn’t a solo feat by any means. Forbert’s songs were uplifted and brought to life with his crew of talented musicians. Taking the lead on guitar and harmonica, Forbert was as playful with his band as he was with the crowd.

The highlight of the set was undoubtedly “Romeo’s Tune,” which Forbert saved for last. The 1979 hit has stood the test of time, as demonstrated by the Free At Noon crowd who erupted in cheers and started dancing at the very first piano chords.

While “Romeo’s Tune” was the last song he played on air, Forbert had a treat in store for the in-person crowd at World Cafe Live. To everyone’s delight, he played two encore songs, barely satiating the audience who didn’t want him to leave.

Forbet’s upcoming album, Daylight Savings Time, is set to release everywhere on September 20, although you can order advanced copies at his website; more information here. He will be back in the Philly area on October 19, playing a show at the Jersey Shore Arts Center, check out XPN’s Concert Calendar for more!