Vance Gilbert in storyteller mode.

The Common Fence Music series featured the always-awesome Vance Gilbert tonight, and for two-and-a-half hours, he held the audience rapt with his trademark blend of amazing vocals, eclectic musical styles, and engaging humor. "You've been doing this series for how long?" he asked, "And you're just getting around to me?"

Indeed, it was high time for Gilbert to play Portsmouth, and he was in great form this evening, with a show that featured a lot of new material, some from the recent album "Up on Rockfield" and some written so recently he had to haul out a notebook. His vocal range, whether scatting like a muted cornet or descending into Cookie Monster on "Round Midnight" is always dazzling, and the lyrics on the new material are just as amazing. You really have to see him live to understand how awesome he is. Great show.

If you're not familiar with Gilbert's work, check out his web site. Hope it doesn't take another 17 years to have him back!