Ian Moore to play with Bob Dylan in concert Nov. 1

RATING: * * * *

by Heather Smith

Imagine this ... you wake up one morning and realize you have tickets to see a most interesting pairing of guitar legends -- Bob Dylan and Ian Moore. These guys have a lot in common -- they both have distinctive voices and amazing songwriting skills. They both also remind me of Austin since Ian Moore got his start there. And at my high school, we had Dylan Day every year when students would skip class to sit around with teachers and play Dylan tunes or read poetry.

If that weren't enough similarity between the two legends, they're playing together at the Houston Music Hall Wed., Nov. 1.

Dylan, of course, has quite a reputation. Moore may not be quite as well-known, but he is quickly gaining support for his second album Modernday Folklore .

In fact, the first single, "Muddy Jesus," has climbed to #18 on Billboard's rock album chart. The song is a mix of hard rock chords and bluesy vocals that scream originality -- as do the rest of the songs on the album.

"Barline 99" is a great Hendrix-sounding tune that explores the rocker-groupie relationship.

"Society" examines Moore's trying to break free of a materialistic society. It is a truly Texas blues rock song with its guitar licks and cowbell.

"Morning Song" is a beautiful love song while "Train Tracks" takes the opposite position of hate.

Lyrically, the album has very diverse themes, but they are all autobiographical and heartfelt. Moore is a true songwriter -- the kind that creates new guitar riffs and melodies -- he doesn't do the same old stuff heard by every other artist. He also writes flowing lyrics that could stand by themselves as poetry.

Therefore, Moore should be a good complement to Dylan for the show next Wednesday. I saw the Ian Moore Band live at the Horizons of Rock Developing Everywhere tour last September in Austin and was amazed by the show. He has intense live performances that burn with energy and excitement.

Go to the show Wednesday ... or if you have too much homework, get Ian Moore's new album, Modernday Folklore .

This item appeared in the Arts & Entertainment section of the October 27, 1995 issue.

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