Yanni, May 13, Delta Center.
To say Yanni's bounce-back concert Tuesday was a thrill is an understatement.
That's not just because his music is sweepingly gorgeous, the 29-piece orchestra is tight, and so were the black-leather pants.
It's also because it looked for a while like the sexy master of creative instrumentation might never return to the stage. It seemed that his 1998 World Tour might be his final bow. He openly admitted he didn't think he'd be coming back.
But he has, and guess what? Not only does he bring with him a new album of wonderfully passionate, diverse songs, but classic, heart-tugging favorites as well.
And — gasp — he sings!
Those who've committed to heart the cuts on "Ethnicity" recognized "Never Too Late," but they couldn't find a male or female vocalist waiting on stage to sing the guttural segment. There was a sort of open pause when Alfreda Gerald walked out carrying two microphones.
Even as she handed one to Yanni, his fans remained puzzled.
Yanni himself told the audience he enjoys the looks on the faces of those on the front row as he steps over and begins to sing.
"Didn't know I could sing, did you?" he said. "Well, I couldn't find anyone to sing it exactly like I wanted it so you're stuck with me."
Nobody seemed to mind.
In fact, Yanni held the capacity crowd captive throughout the night as he introduced the new, vibrant "Rites of Passage," "Rainmaker," "Playing By Heart" and soulful "Jivaeri" cuts interwoven with the majestic music from the "Live At The Acropolis" and "Tribute" albums.
He showcased his exceptional musicians: over-the-top drummer Charlie Adams, David Hudson on the didgeridoo, Victor Espinola on the Paraguayan harp. Throughout, the music was colorful and splendid.
Three hours and four encores later, Yanni blew kisses to his fans and left the stage.
Let's just hope it isn't another five years before he returns.
E-MAIL: haddock@desnews.com