The crowd at the Troubadour Thursday night was about 75 percent
female. This is the case when an attractive, acoustic
singer-songwriters performs.
Jason Mraz, an up-and-comer headlined the sold-out show, proving
to the 600 enthusiastic fans that he has more to offer than many of
his crooning contemporaries. With a guitar in hand, bongo drums and
a standing bass by his sides, plus the occasional back-up saxophone
or banjo, Mraz and his friends proved to be solid musicians.
Their extra edge comes from Mraz’s unique vocal style,
which ranges from long soulful notes to quick-tongued rap-like
lyrics and shockingly melodic scatting, which Mraz put on display
in one of the many highlights of the hour-plus set. Mraz invited a
friend, onto the stage for their very own “Say Anything
Game,” which is basically a free-styling competition. After
wowing the crowd with their improvisational skills, they invited a
fan to join in on the action. One brave soul responded to their
request and earned applause for her worthy attempts.
Having just released his first CD two days earlier, Mraz glowed
with excitement about what he described as one of the best weeks of
his life. He appeared overwhelmed by all the attention.
“I’m just a dude,” he answered to the screaming
ovation greeting him.
A key aspect to Mraz’s charismatic performance is his
sensual, sexed-up comments between songs and within many of the
lyrics. His persona is part of the act. He sported an “I
(heart) Sex” button at the show and in every picture of his
CD’s liner notes.
Snippets of songs ranging from Elvis’ “Viva Las
Vegas” and Madness’ “Our House” to Etta
James’ “At Last” were sprinkled into a number of
the songs. Mraz even did an entire rendition of Elton John’s
“Rocket Man,” putting a uniquely catchy twist onto the
classic tune.
Overall, the show went off without a hitch. The Troubadour was
packed tight with great vibes, great music, and lots of sexual
tension.