Leonard Cohen is a an extraordinary artist. He is a challenging poet/songwriter whose works do not give up their meanings easily and his themes can be dark and sometimes disturbing. His commentary on both politics and relationships is usually stark and unsentimental. "Everybody Knows" and "First We Take Manhattan" challenge, and almost threaten, the listener politically. The 'love' songs "Suzanne" and "So Long Marianne" are wistful and tinged with disappointment. Indeed, Cohen's world is haunted by broken relationships and betrayal, but there is also a promise of reconciliation and redemption. Barb Jungr does an extraordinary job of presenting the poet's musical musings, and it is always a joy to hear her interpret these works. She does so with skill and intelligence, and she brings drama and clarity to the complex emotions that Cohen conjures up in songs like "Bird on The Wire" and "You Want It Darker." She finds the meaning in Cohen's lyrics and lays it bare for the audience to savour and share. Barb Jungr really is one of our premier interpreters of this amazing writer. However, if you missed this show, there are three others coming up. On October 14th Barb Jungr presents her interpretation of the works of Nobel Prize winner, Bob Dylan, and on November 18th she is back with her trio in a show called My Marquee. Then, on December 23rd, she will be appearing in two shows with Dillie Keane. Definitely, take advantage of one of these opportunities to appreciate the artistry of Barb Jungr.
Rated: ★★★★★
Reviewed by J.C.
Image: Barb Jungr.
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