A Special Evening with Glenn Tilbrook and his Special Guest son Leon at the Granada Theater, Dallas
March 23rd, a memorable night at the historic Granada Theater in Dallas, Glenn Tilbrook, the esteemed lead singer and guitarist of the iconic British band Squeeze, delivered a solo performance that was both intimate and electrifying. Accompanied during the latter part of his set by his son, Leon Tilbrook, this concert not only marked Leon's debut U.S. performance but also showcased the deep musical legacy and talent that runs through the Tilbrook family.
Leon Tilbrook
Leon Tilbrook, emerging from the shadows of his father's illustrious career, has carved his own niche in the music industry. Leading the band Beautiful Landing, Leon infuses his performances with a unique blend of indie rock and chamber pop. His songwriting reflects a deep understanding of musical complexity, drawing inspiration from his father's legacy while establishing his own artistic identity.
Leon Tilbrook
Leon, with his distinct style and energy, opened the performance with a 30-minute set that captivated the audience. His songs, characterized by layered melodies and evocative lyrics, set the tone for the night, blending contemporary sounds with classic influences. The seamless transition from Leon's set to Glenn's solo performance felt natural, highlighting the musical synergy between son and father.
Leon Tilbrook
A Legacy of Musical Excellence
Glenn Tilbrook's musical journey began in the mid-1970s when he co-founded Squeeze with lyricist Chris Difford. The band quickly became known for their catchy melodies and insightful lyrics, producing hits like "Cool for Cats," "Up the Junction," and "Tempted." Their ability to blend pop sensibilities with new wave energy earned them critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
After Squeeze's initial disbandment in 1982, Glenn embarked on a solo career, further establishing his reputation as a gifted songwriter and performer. His solo work, including albums like "The Incomplete Glenn Tilbrook" and "Transatlantic Ping Pong," highlight his versatility and enduring passion for music.
Glenn Tilbrook
For his set, Glenn took to the stage with his solo electric guitar, immediately engaging the audience with his charismatic presence and masterful playing. Between songs, he shared anecdotes and stories, offering insights into the origins and inspirations behind his music.
A highlight of the evening was the collaboration between father and son on several Squeeze classics. Performing "Hourglass," "Take Me I'm Yours," "If I Didn't Love You," and "Goodbye Girl," their combined energy and mutual respect were evident. These renditions not only honored the original compositions but also introduced a fresh perspective, demonstrating the timelessness of Squeeze's music.
Glenn Tilbrook
Setlist Highlights
The night's setlist was a testament to Glenn Tilbrook's rich musical history and his ability to connect with audiences across generations. The performance began with a medley of Fleetwood Mac's "Oh Well" and The Monkees' "Pleasant Valley Sunday," showcasing Glenn's eclectic influences.
Squeeze deep cut "The Elephant Ride" provided a moment of reflection, its poignant lyrics resonating deeply with the audience. The song, one of Glenn’s publicly noted “favorite songs” influenced by The Beach Boys in style and tone. "Up the Junction," a staple in Squeeze's repertoire, brought a wave of nostalgia, its storytelling capturing the essence of urban life. A brief interlude featuring a snippet of "The Way You Look Tonight" added a touch of elegance before diving into "By the Light of the Cash Machine," a cover of Ron Sexsmith's work that highlighted Glenn's appreciation for contemporary songwriters.
Glenn Tilbrook
The performance continued with "Is That Love?" and "In Quintessence," both tracks reflecting the band's ability to blend pop melodies with insightful lyrics. "Slap and Tickle" introduced a playful energy, leading into "Tempted," perhaps one of Squeeze's most commercially successful songs, featuring soulful vocals and compelling instrumentation. "Pulling Muscles from the Shell" and "Vanity Fair" further demonstrated the band's versatility, seamlessly transitioning between upbeat tempos and introspective melodies.
The evening culminated with the collaborative performances of "Hourglass," "Take Me I'm Yours," "If I Didn't Love You," and "Goodbye Girl," each song met with enthusiasm and appreciation from the audience. These tracks not only highlighted the enduring appeal of Squeeze's music but also underscored the special dynamic between Glenn and Leon.
Glenn Tilbrook
The show at the Granada Theater was more than just a performance; it was a celebration of musical legacy, familial bonds, and the timeless nature of great songwriting. Glenn Tilbrook, with his decades-long contribution to music, continues to inspire and engage audiences. Leon Tilbrook, with his emerging talent and unique voice, promises a bright future in the industry. Together, they provided a night to remember, leaving the Dallas audience satisfied in both Squeeze nostalgia as well as the next wave in the Tilbrook musical legacy.
Glenn Tilbrook