"Joni loves John". That's what Joni wrote heart shaped on the back of the dulcimer she gave to John Kelly. John was kind enough to let me have a go at playing the dulcimer last night. He must have been relieved when I gave the instrument back unharmed as I wasn't using the anti slip mat. We chatted for a while about Joni, jmdl and stuff. John has a broad smile and a mischievous twinkle in his eye which I'm sure helps when playing the role of Joni Mitchell. These were his first Paved Paradise shows in 2 years but he has plans to update the show to include his new vg8 and he may bring out a record of Joni songs. When I went to collect tickets for the show, a nice lady invited me into a pre show drinks party in a lovely 18th century building. I felt like Eddie in the corner until my mate Tara arrived. John/ Joni was accompanied by expert keyboards and percussion by Georgia O'Keefe, played by Zecca Esquibel. The songs were performed with a lot of heart and soul including stunningly beautiful versions of Blue and Down To You. The between song "this is a dulcimer" type talks were hilarious and appropriately for the location, Francis Bacon was substituted for Van Gough in the intro to The Circle Game. Thanks John and Georgia, it was a real treat. I hope to get to your Joyce show in September. Tomorrow I'll be in Finsbury Park watching Neil Young and Crazy Horse. It's going to be a great weekend. Philip
