By, Jennifer Lunz, Weston Gleffe, Ellen Lunz and Robert Lunz
Jonatha Brooke is definitely a one-of-a-kind musician. She’s unique, quirky, funny, and much more. She merges evocative folk, melodic pop, and an edgy sort of roots and rock sensibility to her music and songs.
Jonatha has been around the block and then some, making music since the early 1990s, starting out as a member of the duo the Story, and then as a solo musical artist. Jump to the present, and she has now released a grand total of four major labels releases, started her own independent label, Bad Dog Records (1999), and more than ten albums. This amazing list includes the critically acclaimed one woman Off-Broadway musical, My Mother Has Four Noses.
Jonatha also has co-written and/or produced songs with artists such as Katy Perry, The Courtyard and Jessica Simpson. She has written songs for Disney, television shows, and composed/performed the theme song for Joss Whedon’s Dollhouse.
I have seen Jonatha several times on stage with my family. We are huge fans of hers, and loved her show at Old Town School of Folk Music in Lincoln Square, on Chicago’s Northside. The concert we saw on Friday, November 8 was no different. Her incredible voice, music and lyrics all contributed to the best evening.
Jonatha also had a great sense of humor, as usual, and cracked jokes. She related well to the sold-out show, as she had that special gift to connect with her audience as a person, performer and musician. She seemed very relaxed and happy throughout the evening. It was pure joy to hear her perform again, singing a mix of new and classic songs/albums of hers.
Her touring partner, Sean Driscoll, was also very talented as a guitarist in his own right. It was obvious that he has been touring with Jonatha for quite a while. Their personalities and supporting guitar skills melded very well with the style of her playing, as well as the style of her songs and general personality.
Her humor was on par with her music. She put a lot of thought and heart into her craft as she always has. Jonatha was more engaging with the audience than most musicians and shows we have seen lately. She also has always been a great improvisor. At the concert, she made up lyrics on the spot for a new song about the presidential election results: “Where did you go, Blue?”
She also sang a song selection from her one woman Off-Broadway musical, My Mother Has Four Noses. Jonatha took care of her mother when she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, until the end. Her mom was described as a unique, talented and quirky woman (just like herself). Her mother’s random, confused conversations with her inspired the musical, including the emotional number “Are You Getting This Down?” This song really resonated with my family, as we took care of and lost my grandmother, my mom’s mother, to Alzheimer’s back in 2013.
If Jonatha Brooke is ever in your hometown, it would be a no-brainer to experience such a talented, down to earth and entertaining musician. You will not be disappointed!
Photos: Jennifer Lunz, except feature image.
For more information on Jonatha Brooke, or her current tour, visit her website.
Visit the Old Town School of Folk Music website for upcoming concert schedules.
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