Mini review: Alanis Morissette, Garbage satisfy at SPAC
Times Union LogoHearst Newspapers Logo

Mini review: Alanis Morissette, Garbage satisfy at SPAC

By
Alanis Morissette, above, with Garbage and Liz Phair, SPAC, Saratoga Springs, Sept 5

Alanis Morissette, above, with Garbage and Liz Phair, SPAC, Saratoga Springs, Sept 5

Getty Images

Mini Review

Alanis Morissette with Garbage and Cat Power
When: 7 p.m., Sunday Where: Saratoga Performing Arts Center, Route 50, Saratoga Springs
What’s next: The legendary Willie Nelson brings his Outlaw Fest to town on the 12th, with Gov’t Mule and next generation country stars Sturgill Simpson and Margo Price.
For more info: www.spac.org

In an era where cultural touchstones feel increasingly rare, Alanis Morissette’s “Jagged Little Pill” stands out as one of the last and largest. From the 5-minute intro video highlighting its legacy to a ravenously received set rooted in it, Morissette’s inspired SPAC performance reveled in that success. Her outstanding, powerhouse vocals and sheer vitality helped the night feel special. Garbage’s set of mid-to-late 1990s alternative rock radio staples was excellent and its industrial rock sound translated well on stage. Frontwoman Shirley Manson was cool, lovably quirky and she sounded spot-on. She was this reviewer’s favorite part of the night

Jim Shahen has written for the Times Union since 2014 and is a true believer in the local music scene. His concert reviews are accurate and fair, especially the negative one of Justin Timberlake that raised hackles on Facebook. Feel free to email him with your music or music-related stories at jshahenjr@gmail.com