House of Blues Chicago – Chicago, IL, United States – December 22, 2006
by Anita Maree Lande
Chicago based singer/songwriter Michael McDermott and his band gave the House of Blues crowd an early holiday gift by giving a stellar performance. McDermott, known for his impeccable and virtuous lyrics, rolled along demonstrating this song after song. When the curtains opened, McDermott wearing a black hat and dark suit was sitting at the piano and opened his set with a new song called ScarsFrom Another Life. Clearly this was one of the best songs of the night with lyrics, which included, "I was so down I had completely lost my way/ Don't be afraid/ Scars From Another Life." Then McDermott removed his hat, grabbed his guitar, and rocked with the moving Arm Yourself. His band included Mark Grezlak on lead guitar, Rafe Bradford on bass guitar, Nick Kitsos drums, and Heather Horton on violin. Perfectly Imperfect, another new song, is a thirst-quenching love song with an uplifting beat and fun song to sing along with. Then the set slowed up a bit as McDermott performed Long Way From Heaven, a beautiful song about searching, confusion, and wanting. McDermott then dedicated his song Hellfire in the Holyland to the U.S. troops. Violinist Heather Horton performed flawlessly. With her unique sensual style, you can feel each note she plays, and her beautiful background vocals added a bit of sparkle during the night. Other songs performed included his popular Dance With Me, 20 Miles South of Nowhere, Junkie Girl, and keeping with the Christmas spirit a moving version of Little DrummerBoy. McDermott also did an exciting turn when he performed the Kelly Clarkson mega-hit Since You've Been Gone that was met with thunderous applause and the crowds dancing.
With a new CD coming out in 2007, McDermott is on his way in having one rockin' year; or should I say a Perfectly Imperfect year!
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