Manic Presents: Ben Folds And A Piano April 23rd, in New Haven, Connecticut
Words and Photos by: Chantel Malin | @chantelmalin
Singer, songwriter, and pianist Ben Folds has had a lucrative career spanning nearly four decades, and has managed to move through the years with a grace and mastery of his craft that inspires awe in those lucky to see him perform. Having performed in the alt rock band Ben Folds Five for many years in the 90s and early 2000s, he has since continued to release music under his own solo name, the most recent of which being 2023's LP What Matters Most. A career that has lasted years through several genres has also transcended generations; in recent years, Folds has found himself collaborating with artists such as Laufey, Jacob Collier, and Dodie, alongside various symphony orchestras.
Known for his enthusiastic performances, Folds has now allowed the years - nor a lingering case of bronchitis - to dull his energy. His return to College Street Music Hall was a joyful one, peppered with songs from all phases of the pianist's life and with a healthy dose of his cheeky personality and dry sense of humor. Though Folds' shows these days are often just himself and a piano, he's recently started to bring his dog Maurice along on tour, having penned the song "Me and Maurice" for him. The pooch himself even made an appearance on stage early in the set for his namesake song, to the delight of many. "Capable Of Anything," from 2015's So There collaborative album with modern chamber ensemble yMusic, was a stunning display of Folds' versatility; even as a solo performer, he manages to find ways to use the piano as a whole band, incorporating percussive elements into his playing that is truly larger than life.
A more sentimental portion of the set - rightfully preceded by "Sentimental Guy" - found Folds speaking of the various muses and memories that have inspired his music over the years, including that of a childhood friend who inspired the Ben Folds Five track "Eddie Walker." He also spoke of the two songs he wrote for his twins when they were born, "Still Fighting It" for his song Louis and "Gracie" for his daughter of the same name, and how it has been so touching to see his longtime fans start bringing their own kids to his shows - and, in some cases, those kids have started bringing their own children along.
Folds has done more than created music for the ages; he's inspired an entire generation of performers and musicians, especially pianists, himself. Long considered a hero to all the kids who grew up taking piano lessons but dreaming of playing in rock bands, the man has developed a rapport with fans new and old alike that speaks to the universal language of music. With just a few gestures of the hand and nods of the head, Folds managed to direct his audience in three-part harmony for "You Don't Know Me." After closing with some more audience participation during "Army," Folds left the stage with the same genuine smile and words of gratitude that has endeared him to so many for so long. We hope to see Folds back in New Haven for many more years in the future!
Check out the full gallery of Ben Folds below!
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