Dylan's romantic side shines alongside impressive band

Bob Dylan's remarkable, tour-opening, three-night run at the Paramount, which ended Wednesday, marked a significant shift in his performance style. He was backed by a sharp six-piece country/folk band, as opposed to the rock bands he had been touring with. He emphasized songs from his classic years in the 1960s. And the presentation had a distinguished, formal air, with Dylan and the band in suits, and a dramatic, red-curtain backdrop.

Rock press from throughout the world was there to cover the opening night show on Monday, and it was an exciting, pleasing performance.

Unfortunately, however, it was not the best.

By far the best night was Tuesday, when Dylan was in a buoyant mood and rocked all night long. Nine of the 14 songs were from the '60s, including such energizing ones as "You Ain't Goin' Nowhere," "Highway 61 Revisited," "Down Along the Cove," "This Wheel's on Fire," and "Rainy Day Women #12 and 35 (Everybody Must Get Stoned)."

His voice was better Tuesday, much clearer than on Monday. And the band was as spirited as Dylan. Because the show was more lively, so was the audience.

Dylan the romantic showed up Wednesday, with almost all the songs touching on relationships. A highlight was "Just Like A Woman," which he spoke as much as sang. "Make You Feel My Love," from 1997, a beautiful, poetic masterpiece, moved the crowd into silence. He also sang "To Be Alone With You," "I'll Be Your Baby Tonight," "Honest With Me," and "Most Likely You Go Your Way And I'll Go Mine."

The third night was the best technically. The sound mix, which was uneven Monday and Tuesday, was perfect, so much so that the band got a standing ovation. Hearing the violin and guitars made the music much richer.

The set lists differed each night, as did the mood. However, on Wednesday, "Most Likely You Go Your Way And I'll Go Mine" was rendered almost exactly like the '66 original recording.

Patrick MacDonald: 206-464-2312, pmacdonald@seattletimes.com