Lindsey Buckingham concert review | Lakewood Civic Auditorium | 10.20.06

Lindsey Buckingham lived up to and surpassed expectations Friday night (10.20.06) during his tour stop at Lakewood Civic Auditorium. The Fleetwood Mac guitarist stepped into the spotlight with “Not Too Late,” the first track off of his recent release, ‘Under the Skin.’ This would be the first of many songs that carried fans on a soulful journey – the journey was a rare glimpse of his thoughts and experiences put to articulately played guitar and laced with profound lyrics. Buckingham switched back and forth between an ever-so-soft whisper that was clear and crisp to belting it out loud and strong.

Lindsey seemed aware of everyone in the intimate audience. He displayed a humble, gentle spirit while obliging requests for Fleetwood Mac tunes including “Go Your Own Way” and “Tusk.” The new version of “Troubl”e brought cheers from the audience as it satisfied the need for some to reconnect and reflect on the past. Buckingham brought the packed house back slowly to the present with “Big Love,” where he demonstrated his impeccable fingerpicking styles and vocal crescendos. I was very excited to share these moments with my young adult children, who were lucky enough to see him from front and center.

“Cast Away Dreams” was prompted by an explanation that there is difficulty in letting go of long-awaited dreams. The sweet melody seemed to soften the painful words that announced a “farewell to the wishes that died”. If letting go of a dream brought him to this new place, it was not by reinventing himself, but by knowing and expressing himself. Buckingham found a connection with his seasoned voice, joined by insightful words, and surrounded by an array of chords played in his own way on the guitar. His three-piece band added spirit, heart, and depth to his new poignant sound. If you missed it, you REALLY missed out on a special night.