As a long time Armatrading fan, I thought that I would respond to this topic as well. I've seen Joan about 8 or 9 times in concert, and except for the last time at the House of Blues in Chicago, they were all incredible. The HOB was especially disappointing after seeing her the time before that at the Vic. This was one great show, including a string quartet which she brought out for about half the set. This show was riveting from beginning to end. However, the HOB show bordered on the boring. She definitely looked like she was there to collect a pay check. I don't know what happened to her - is she finally so turned off by her lack of success that she's stopped caring? I really don't know, but I hope it is only a temporary situation. When she is on, she is one of the best. And while her later albums might be a little spotty, she still is capable of putting out some incredible stuff - Merchant of Love comes immediately to mind.
I must admit that after the HOB show, I would be reluctant to go see her again, especially after reading similar comments, but based upon the number of times she blew me away, I'm sure I would break down and see her again, hoping she was just having a bad time on that tour. Jack
