Tom Jones International

SusannePDX was at the show last night in Portland. Her words and photos need no further comment. But we must say we love that marquee.

Tom Jones came to Portland tonight and left us filled with adrenaline. Its has been 2 years since his last show here. Portlanders of all ages were ready. (No merchandise was offered for sale. I’m sure it would have sold. I hope when his CD is out they will at least offer that.)

For fans familiar with the MGM Hollywood Theater, I’ll point out a few differences. The lighting was not as sophisticated. Although a majority of women, there were many many males and couples in the room. The “Schintz” holds 2,200+ seats and it was sold out. At 7:35pm the lights dimmed but there was not the usual video intro just the audio. Tony came out to introduce Sir Tom and the whole place rose to their feet, clapping and screaming. Tom bounced unto the stage to a standing ovation. The crowd went wild and TJ drank in the energy . He was on fire in his red coat. The voice was as fine as ever. His step was very lively–he danced up a storm.

The set was the same but it didn’t matter. Other than the usual comment about “happy to say I’m 200 lbs” there was no banter with the audience but his gestures were more pronounced.. The crowd especially like He Stopped Loving Her Today, 200 lbs, Git Me Some, and the standards went over very well — but when he got to She’s A Lady the whole audience was on their feet again dancing in their seats. Security was heavy, shewing people out of the aisles. People caught taking pictures were pounced upon. By the time the encore rolled around they couldn’t control the audience anymore. Tom stayed longer on stage taking his bows. No one wanted it to end.

It is no wonder this man loves to tour. We loved him and he loved us back.