Susanna hoffs Radiates Timeless Appeal at Intimate Connecticut Performance
Susanna Hoffs, the iconic voice of The Bangles and a celebrated solo artist, recently captivated a Connecticut audience with a remarkably intimate show at the Ridgefield Playhouse.The performance showcased both her fresh songwriting and beloved classics, proving her enduring talent and connection with fans. This wasn’t just a concert; it was an evening of storytelling and musical grace.
Hoffs embarked on a brief East Coast tour, and the Ridgefield stop offered a unique, stripped-down experience. She was joined by the exceptionally talented Ryan Lerman on acoustic guitar and CJ Camerieri on piano and trumpet, creating a rich and dynamic soundscape.
A Night of New & Nostalgic Sounds
The show kicked off with a burst of energy courtesy of Prince’s “Manic Monday,” instantly igniting the crowd. Following this Bangles staple, Hoffs seamlessly transitioned into another fan favorite, “In Your room.”
but the evening wasn’t solely about revisiting the past. Hoffs generously shared several tracks from her forthcoming solo album, offering a glimpse into her evolving artistry. Camerieri, with his radio-ready voice, skillfully introduced these new songs, providing context alongside Hoffs’ own personal anecdotes.
Among the new material performed were:
* “Casablanca“
* “None of Them Were You” – a poignant reflection on past relationships leading to her marriage to Jay Roach.
* “Bad Case of Loneliness”
* “Sometimes You Gotta Learn Your Lesson Twice”
* “Good Luck”
While navigating the new songs, Hoffs occasionally glanced at lyrics, a charming vulnerability that only enhanced the performance’s authenticity. These minor moments felt less like mistakes and more like intimate peeks behind the curtain.
Fan Interaction & storytelling
Hoffs fostered a genuine connection with the audience, even opening the floor for questions. When a fan requested “Hazy Shade of Winter,” hoffs and her band happily obliged, rearranging the setlist to fulfill the request. This spontaneity underscored the relaxed and engaging atmosphere.
The stories woven between songs added another layer of depth. Hoffs recounted The Bangles’ visit to Graceland, revealing the inspiration behind their iconic ballad, “Eternal Flame,” which she then delivered with breathtaking beauty. You could feel the emotion in every note.
A Stellar Encore & Enduring voice
For the encore, Hoffs picked up an acoustic guitar, adding a personal touch to the final moments of the show. She offered stunning renditions of Michael Nesmith’s “Different Drum” and a hauntingly beatiful cover of Bob Dylan/Nico’s “I’ll Keep It with Mine.”
Remarkably, Hoffs appears remarkably unchanged after four decades in the music industry. Her voice remains as captivating and angelic as ever, a testament to her dedication and talent.The skillful accompaniment of Lerman and Camerieri further elevated the experience, making for a truly memorable evening.
Setlist:
- Manic Monday (The Bangles)
- in Your Room (The Bangles)
- Casablanca
- None of Them Were You
- Hero Takes a Fall (The Bangles)
- Sometimes You gotta Learn Your Lesson Twice
- Hazy shade of Winter (The Bangles)
- Bad Case of Loneliness
- Eternal flame (The Bangles)
- Good Luck
- It’s My Time
- Sitting in Limbo (Jimmy Cliff cover)
- Different Drum (Michael nesmith)
- I’ll Keep It With Mine (Bob Dylan/Nico cover)
This performance wasn’t just a concert; it was a party of a remarkable career and a testament to Susanna Hoffs’ enduring artistry. If you have the chance to see her perform, don’t hesitate – you won’t be disappointed.
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