Pink Martini

Nina introduced me to Pink Martini several years ago. I forget exactly when, but Alan and I have most of their CDs and have seen them in person twice. The first time was last year at the Marin Veterans’ Auditorium. China Forbes was recovering from vocal cord surgery and Storm Large was singing. She was wonderful and the band was exhilarating. Last night we took Nina to see them w/​the San Francisco Symphony at Davies Symphony Hall. The second floor of the Hall was filled w/​decorated Christmas trees which not only looked lovely but smelled marvelous, as they were real. It looked festive and beautiful.
The music was wonderful. China Forbes was back. Her voice is a little deeper and darker than it was, but still beautiful. The little orchestra worked beautifully w/​the larger symphony. They performed a few numbers from their holiday album, not just Christmas music, but music from other cultures and traditions, interesting enough that Nina and I both bought a CD. They also performed pieces from their other albums and a few strictly orchestral pieces. They ended w/​an audience conga line through the Hall to «Brazil», complete w/​a guy w/​an open black and red umbrella who looked as if he belonged in a New Orleans second line. It was a grand and glorious evening. I am definitely a fan and aspire to be a groupie. I would come see them whenever they come to town. I am envious of Suzanne A, who saw them at the Great American Music Hall in 2007 and encourage you to see them whenever the opportunity presents itself. They are Portland’s gift to the world.

I first heard Pink Martini’s music during one of our annual block parties. Our neighbor, the music master had it playing all night. I couldn’t get their name fast enough and went right out and got their first CD. It is a several member band, and most have serious musical training. Their music is multicultural in sound and theme. It is upbeat, and makes you feel very good. If you haven’t heard them, check them out. I promise you won’t be sorry.

Pink Martini is rightly called «Portland’s House Band.» They’re an exuberant global cabaret group, and they do make the music come alive! Their albums are EXCELLENT – and they are wonderful!
They make the City of Roses blossom!

thanks again to my Portland peeps for introducing me to this amazing ensemble of mega-​talents.
it was 1997, Sympatique had just been released, and my friend played me «Amado Mio», i was hooked. then they went on tour and happened to be at the amazing, ornate, acoustically competent Great American Music Hall and i was lucky enough to get tickets. i brought my parents, and they too have been hooked ever since.
then not too long ago, i got to hear them perform w/​the SF Symphony and i kid you not, i was brought to tears. the «wow’ factor was overwhelming. China Forbes has the most amazing voice, and Tom Lauderdale tinkles the ivories in amazing accompaniament. and in my opionion, they play an ecclectic mix of music that appeals to all generations and makes you tap your toes.
at your next house party, put on Pink Martini late night for a different kind of dance-​off. i bet everyone will be dancing.

I actually can’t believe only one other person has reviewed this band! With the exception of the shins, they are Portland’s most famous band.
A 12 piece orchestra that plays and sings in a million different styles and languages including portuguese, french, arabic and japanese. They have a recognizable style, but because of the eclecticness its hard to describe.
I saw them on New Year’s Eve and I do not recommend it. They are wonderful in concert, but not on a night like this. The opening act was on for far too long, the midnight countdown was late, rushed and uneventful and the concert went until almost 1:30. Too late!
I might see them at an outdoor venue in the summer, but not again on a night like new year’s.