Bangles showcase great songs and writers

Susanna Hoffs of the Bangles

By Ken Paulson

–Seaside, Fla. — As headliners at the 30A Songwriters Festival, the Bangles proudly proclaimed their founding three decades ago. Both the band and their music have held up remarkably well.

There’s some irony in the Bangles being the biggest names at the festival because while they’ve written a good part of their material, some of their biggest successes and most popular tracks have been covers of others’ compositions.

Their driving set at the Lyceum in Seaside, Florida included spirited versions of Prince’s “Manic Monday,” Alex Chilton’s “September Gurls,” Jules Shear’s “If She Knew What She Wants,” Paul Simon’s “Hazy Shade of Winter” and Emmitt Rhodes’ “Live.” Indeed, that is one of the most endearing qualities of the Bangles: They know and respect great pop songs and their covers typically match or beat the originals.

The concert began with “Anna Lee,” the same song that leads off the Bangles’ fine new album Sweetheart of the Sun. The album was well-represented in the set, and the new material is strong, particularly “Under A Cloud” and “Ball and Chain.”

Susanna Hoffs may have been the most visible of the Bangles due to videos and a solo career, but the show was a reminder that this is a band with balance, with Hoffs, Vicki Peterson and Debi Peterson trading off lead and harmony vocals throughout the concert.

The Bangles’ harmonies were impeccable, and songs like “In My Room,”  and “Going Down to Liverpool” remain vibrant.

Surprises included a medley of “Get the Girl” and the Turtles’ “Outside Chance” (written by a young Warren Zevon) and set closer ‘Walk Like an Egyptian/Magic Bus” with a chorus/dance troupe made up of bands that have opened for the Bangles.

The Bangles may play hits from an earlier era, but this is no oldies band. There’s a vitality and energy here that few of their peers can match.