Soundstage

- Season 7

(2009)

In this fantastic Soundstage set, Counting Crows play the majority of their fifth studio release, Saturday Nights & Sunday Mornings, a tightly-crafted concept album made up of passionately honest songs. Saturday Nights & Sunday Mornings is the perfect combination of high and low. The Saturday Nights songs are upbeat, pairing subtle but expressive lyrics with fast-paced, brazen electric guitar, while the Sunday Mornings selections have a more reflective, subdued tone.

Fans and newcomers alike won't be disappointed with actress/singer/songwriter Idina Menzel's powerhouse voice and effervescent stage presence. Tony Award winner Menzel was featured in "Rent" and "Wicked," two of the best-selling musical cast recordings of all time. Throughout the show Idina reveals her quirky personality, maintaining a truly personal connection with the audience by sharing stories of her upbringing, early career and lyrics before launching into songs off her third album, I Stand.

Universally hailed as one of the most popular rock acts throughout the '70s and '80s, Foreigner still puts on an absolutely thrilling and sensational show thirty years later. Singer Kelly Hansen and lead guitarist Mick Jones are a wicked combination on songs like "Hot Blooded" and "Double Vision." Foreigner's showmanship is outstanding and this episode is packed with smash hits.

The man needs no introduction. Truly the reigning king of blues, over the last 60 years B.B. King has developed one of the world's most identifiable guitar styles and has influenced thousands of musicians. Known for integrating precise and complex string bends with left hand vibrato, King has a uniquely regal and velvety tone making every note count. With trademark Gibson "Lucille" settled on his lap, B.B. King presents a set filled with staggering guitar jams on hits like "The Thrill Is Gone" and "One Kind Favor." In between songs, King's characteristic affable ...

Legendary on the jam band circuit, Chicago-based Umphrey's McGee has perfected the art of progressive improvisation. Swirling guitars and innovative multi-faceted arrangements keep fans on their toes. With power and finesse, this sextet brings jamming to a new level during this episode of Soundstage. A flair for spontaneity, dazzling musicianship, and an impressive live presence make Umphrey's McGee a must-see as they perform "Higgins," "Morning Song," and many others.

Together with legendary music producer David Foster, Seal adds his signature touch to some of the best soul songs ever created. In a stunning performance, Seal evokes an era when music vividly captured emotion and romance.

Rock's poet laureate Jackson Browne delivers a remarkable performance featuring tracks from his latest recording, Time the Conqueror, as well as hits from his previous 11 studio albums. For more than three decades, Browne has set the standard for singer/songwriters, consistently producing heartfelt, personal lyrics while weaving-in a level of social consciousness which personifies his music. His performance on Soundstage exemplifies this reputation. Browne shines on recent tracks "Time the Conqueror" and "Live Nude Cabaret," but also nails hits from his earlier ...

Grammy-nominated OneRepublic displays boundless energy throughout this episode of Soundstage while offering up rousing performances of hit singles "Apologize," "Stop and Stare," "Say (All I Need)" and "Mercy." Catch a perfect blend of pop and rock on other featured tracks from their debut CD Dreaming Out Loud, along with a fantastic version of Gnarls Barkley's "Crazy."

Jennifer Nettles' voice can hold its own in any setting, but exceeds expectations alongside partner Kristian Bush's mandolin strumming at the Grainger Studio. During this sensational hour, Sugarland presents a versatile set that gains momentum with each song. Their forte is to effortlessly transition from energetic pop songs to heartfelt, soulful ballads without skipping a beat.

Indie rock favorite turned major label sensation Death Cab for Cutie presents an impeccable set on this episode of Soundstage. Lead vocalist Ben Gibbard's cozy voice has an engaging quality that ropes you in on songs from their new EP The Open Door, 2008 studio album Narrow Stairs and highlights from their prolific catalog.

Rock icon Billy Idol takes a packed Congress Theater by storm! With trademark attitude, Idol presents a high-energy rock and roll blowout with classic hits like "Dancing with Myself," "Rebel Yell" and "White Wedding."

With their stadium rock riffs and anthem choruses, Chicago-based Fall Out Boy offers up unparalleled energy in this Soundstage set. Vocalist/guitarist Patrick Stump, bassist Pete Wentz, drummer Andy Hurley and guitarist Joe Trohman make up the perfect pop punk quartet. Amidst bass twirling, drum solos, and roaring power chords, Stump delivers strong vocals from start to finish.

An internationally-renowned performer who has sold more than 23 million albums worldwide, Josh Groban has thrilled a legion of devoted fans with his rich baritone and extraordinary stage presence. Performed in the very intimate Frederick P. Rose Hall, home of Jazz at Lincoln Center, this exhilarating program includes favorites from his best-selling albums, including "Alla Luce del Sole," "You Are Loved (Don't Give Up)," "February Song" and "Machine." Guest performers Herbie Hancock and Chris Botti join Josh on stage in a performance not to be missed.

On Michael McDonald-This Christmas: A Soundstage Special Event, Michael McDonald combines yuletide favorites for a perfect blend of holiday cheer. On other classics McDonald is accompanied by strings, adding an entirely new dynamic to the diverse set.