I hate to even say anything bad about this guy.  He doesn’t deserve it.  As far as I can tell, he’s good to everyone, and he loves his fans more than any musician evar.  However, I’ve got to say one negative (there were many positives) about last night’s Andrew WK concert:  he needs his band!

Don’t get me wrong; the solo act is pretty energetic.  On his solo tour, Andrew just has a synthesizer and some pre-recorded backup with him.  Its still one huge party, and Andrew WK’s attitude and personality are really what make the show.  But I’ve seen him twice now, and the sound and the energy were really much more powerful when he had a band behind him.  He lets as many people that will fit on stage with him and everyone feels like they’re part of the show.  The last time I saw  him, I remember I could barely keep from knocking into the fretboard of the guitar player, and this time I wished that he was still there.

Don’t let this stop you from seeing Andrew WK.  These shows are really an experience.  Everyone should go at least once.  He draws a variety of age groups and he captivates the crowd with his many words of encouragement.  He is so dogmatic about postivity and freedom, it gets to be almost preachy.  Even if you’re not into all the feel-good PMA, his music makes you feel good, and you can’t help but enjoy being a part of an uber awesome party super party.