Don't Shy Away From Seeing Patti Smith Live

By Chuck Sudo in Arts & Entertainment on Apr 16, 2013 6:40PM

Photo credit: Kevin Winter/Getty Images

At 66, Patti Smith's concerts still rock with a ferocity and emotion of performers half the legendary singer and poet's age, as if she's still trying to exorcise some demons before she answers the Final Call. She does this, for the most part, with the help of a kickass band that includes her longtime guitarist Lenny Kaye.

Smith's latest album, 2012's Banga, was inspired by Smith's dreams and includes the 10-minute improvised meditation, "Constantine's Dream," and the churning mid-tempo number "April Fool," which could easily be one of Smith's poppier numbers.

Smith's May 6 show at the Vic Theatre sold out almost as soon as tickets went on sale, prompting the addition of a second show May 7. Tickets to that show are still available as of post time. Whether you're a die-hard Smith fan dating back to her '70s commercial peak or new to her music, she's a must-watch in a concert setting.

Patti Smith performs at the Vic Theatre, 3145 N. Sheffield Ave., on Tuesday, May 7. Buy your tickets here.