In Times Like These (Live)

iTunes Review

Playing with a full symphony orchestra isn’t new territory for Arlo Guthrie — he was first accompanied by a large ensemble in 1998. When Guthrie turned 60 on July 10, 2007 he celebrated the milestone with a live concert backed by the University of Kentucky Symphony Orchestra at Carnegie Hall. In addition to his birthday, he was also toasting the 40-year anniversary of his first album, Alice’s Restaurant. But sticking with his contrarian ways, Guthrie didn’t play that humorous upstart narrative. In fact, his zany hippie humor is absent — Guthrie stoically plays mostly moody songs with little to no banter between pieces, letting his music speak for itself. “Darkest Hour” from 1976’s Amigo sets the tone with a melancholy tune and lush strings, arranged by James Burton (who wrote the charts here, keeping the orchestra on their toes). “Last Train” also finds Guthrie singing wistfully as the orchestra casts shadows of despondence. A slightly animated take on “St. James Infirmary” lightens the load a little and the crowd- pleasing “City of New Orleans” brightens the tone, serving as a reminder that the man’s music has a sunny side as well.