Written by Bill Whiting
The Monkees’ return to Cincinnati, Ohio’s PNC Pavilion on June 6 was a breezy, summer walk back into the 1960’s with the chart topping ensemble, and it’s innovative use of film and television. Starting with the filmed intro to it’s groundbreaking television show, the three remaining members (Peter Tork, Micky Dolenz and Michael Nesmith) took the stage to launch into “Last Train to Clarksville” and “Papa Gene’s Blues.” Tork engaged the energized PNC Pavilion crowd with a wild run through the boisterous stomp of “Your Auntie Grizelda.” Dolenz danced effortlessly, and sang the radio friendly numbers, “She” and “(I’m Not Your) Stepping Stone.” Nesmith added vocal strength, and an anchoring instrumental presence on the popular tunes, “Sweet Young Thing” and “What Am I Doing Hangin’ Round?” as Monkee mania swept through the concert facility. The highlight of the concert was a mid set throwback into the group’s psychedelic contributions, “For Pete’s Sake,” and the poignant performance of “Porpoise Song” from the Monkees’ cult favorite film, Head. The band paid tribute to the late Davy Jones by sharing vocal duties on “Daydream Believer” with the PNC Pavilion’s enthusiastic throng. The Monkees capped off an entertaining summer evening with gracious style and effervescent wit as they jammed on the rocking encores, “Listen to the Band” and “Pleasant Valley Sunday.” It was truly a “groovy” and “far out” experience.
Set: Last Train to Clarksville, Papa Gene’s Blues, Your Auntie Grizelda, The Kind of Girl I Could Love, She, Sweet Young Thing, I’m a Believer, (I’m Not Your) Stepping Stone, You Told Me, Sunny Girlfriend, You Just May Be The One, Mary, Mary, The Girl I Knew Somewhere, Shades of Gray, Randy Scouse Git, For Pete’s Sake, No Time, The Door Into Summer, Words, Goin’ Down, Porpoise Song (Theme From “Head”), Can You Dig It?, Circle Sky, As We Go Along, Long Title: Do I Have To Do This All Over Again?, What Am I Doing Hangin’ ‘Round?, Daydream Believer Encore: Listen To The Band, Pleasant Valley Sunday
