Some 1990s Band

While he continues to perform regularly, Levon Helm has only sang sporadically during recent months due to health issues. But on Saturday night, The Band drummer has feeling well enough to sing on a good chunk of the songs during his Woodstock, NY Midnight Rambles. A note from Helm’s management on his Facebook page reads, “This past Saturday, Levon’s voice was amazing. He took the lead on more than a few songs – once again proving that ‘ya never know what’s going to happen at the Ramble.” Helm will hold one more Ramble on February 4 before taking some time off due to a medical procedure.

Speaking of unexpected surprising, last week a number of Band alumni performed at Helm’s Midnight Ramble. Organized by Conan / Fab Faux guitarist Jimmy Vivino, the night was billed as a tribute to late Band members Rick Danko and Richard Manuel. In addition to Helm, Band keyboardist Garth Hudson and members of the Levon Helm Band, the evening’s core lineup featured latter day band guitarist Jim Weider and drummer Randy Ciarlante, who sang many of Manuel’s vocal parts after his passing. The members of the Rock of Ages and RCO All Stars horn section also sat in at points throughout the show. The evening touches on a number of Band staples, including “ 4% Pantomime,” “Across the Great Divide,’ “All La Glory,” “Chest Fever,” “… Country Boy,” “Goin’ to Acapulco,” “Holy Cow,” “Jawbone,” “Life Is a Carnival,’ “The Moon Struck One,” “Ophelia,” “Rockin’ Chair,” “The Shape I’m In,” “Sleeping,” “Stage Fright,” “The Unfaithful Servant,” “Up on Cripple Creek,” “When You Awake” and “Whispering Pines.”