As has been fully documented elsewhere, Jeff/NMH slid into the abyss not long after releasing two masterful albums – On Avery Island (1996) and Aeroplane Over the Sea (1998). So, this mini tour is something of a mystery that hasn’t really been explained. Indeed, during both Monday’s and Tuesday’s performances, Jeff (who repeatedly welcomed questions from the audience) never addressed his motives for disappearing, or now reappearing, other than in cryptic, half-bashful, references to “the love of his life” and the “unexpected power” of these songs. And I haven’t found publications with any answers more satisfying, either. But perhaps that is the point. After all, to many, these songs have become something of a religion, and deities don’t often explain themselves.

The show itself moved at a natural pace, especially once Jeff broke the tension of the crowd (which seemed nervous to make itself known, what being in the presence of such a worshiped enigma) by proclaiming “you don’t have to be so quiet.” After that, he moved seemingly randomly through the material of the two albums, occasionally switching between the 5 acoustic guitars that rang his seat at the front of the stage. Guest musicians popped in occasionally to underline segments with clarinet, trumpet and cello, but otherwise it was just Jeff, his guitars and his audience.

It was a hauntingly beautiful performance, and Jeff’s voice has held up well (better, perhaps, than on album). It was an emotional connection with songs I’ve heard countless times, but never before live. This one is going to stand out for a long, long time, but not only as one of the best shows I’ve ever attended. The mystery of this man, this show and this tour just seem well suited to the mystery and beauty of these songs, and to (finally) witness it live in so intimate of settings is surely something transcending a mere “show.”

It’s all black, slightly sinister looking, and includes a hologram to prevent copying. I haven’t used it yet (I just picked it up), but I’ll probably keep a running list of what I wind up using it for this year and to share with you whether it was a wise investment. Here’s a copy of the published benefits, per Empty Bottle:

FRIENDS OF THE BOTTLE (FOB) PASS

We’ve never extended our friendship to our patrons quite like this before,
but we are pleased as punch that you want to bask in the warmth of our boozy
embrace.  Like all good partnerships, we want you to know exactly what we
expect from you to ensure that we remain besties.

Here’s what you get:
- Free entry to any events held at the Empty Bottle with a ticket price
below $10 with no lines, no waiting. FOB passes will be honored when advance
tickets are under $10.
- A 24-hour exclusive window to purchase tickets to any show $10 and up,
we’ll let you know when the big shows are coming and you get first dibbs.
- Exclusive invites to secret VIP shows.
- A drink ticket with entry to a show at the Empty Bottle ($5 maximum value)
- Your choice of an Empty Bottle T-shirt – feel free to pick out your
T-shirt at any time.
- 15% off between doors and showtime at Bite Café, just show them your pass.
- 15% off the purchase of posters, T-shirts from the Empty Bottle on-line
store.