Cat Power Sings Dylan ’66 – Edinburgh Playhouse

Running some fifteen minutes late, Chan Marshall, AKA Cat Power takes to the stage hobbling with a recently broken toe. It’s not a good start, but nothing compared to the distinctly lacklustre 45 minutes that follow, which are to say the least a huge disappointment, to me personally and on the evidence I saw, the majority of the almost full Edinburgh Playhouse crowd.

People leaving, muttering, thank god that’s over, is never a good sign!

Far from owning the stage, the American performer, with a distinctly quiet acoustic guitar and harmonica support, and an almost inaudible Hammond organ accompaniment makes heavy weather of Visions of Johanna, Desolation Row and Mr Tamborine Man. Powers rather convoluted and, frankly, untuneful interpretations of these classics, with constant reference to a songbook alongside her, makes me seriously wonder how well she knows these songs.

I’ve no doubt that the majority of the crowd are hoping, nay, expecting more faithful renditions of the Dylan back catalogue from his classic Royal Albert Hall 1966 concert, and that simply doesn’t happen.

It is a relief therefore when the second half, electric set turns up. There are no shouts of “Judas!”, I think everyone is just delighted the first half dirge is over.

With a raised volume and energy, we are off to the races, at last! It is as if Power is unshackled to sing out, with volume, for the first time, and what a difference! Baby, Let Me Follow You Down is belted out with assurance and virtuosity. Likewise, her jazzy growl through Ballad of a Thin Man, is perfect and the finishing number, a rootsy, tootsy version of Like A Rolling Stone, sends the large crowd off, suitably reminded of Dylan’s brilliance.

Reviewer: Greg Holstead

Reviewed: 18^th August 2024

North West End UK Rating: 3

Running time – 1hr 40mins