The Carpenter Center is hosting four concerts as part of their Sunday Afternoon Concert Series. CSNY is the first.

Three talented singers bravely and reverently dive into the iconic and perhaps alchemic harmonies of CSNY. While two of these three also play acoustic guitars, a backup band fills out the mix with an electric bass, electric guitar, keyboards/piano, and drums. For the most part, the electric guitarist and keyboardist add their own lovely interpretations of CSNY solos. In fact, the keyboard solo on "For What It's Worth (Stop, Hey What's That Sound)" was spectacular and received a robust round of applause.

All of that said, the most magical moments resonated when the band rested, and the three leads played acoustic, and at one point sang completely a cappella on "Helplessly Hoping." I simply loved the sweetness of that performance! While all the musicians were top notch, I would have preferred to hear more songs played unplugged. The piano and single vocal intro to "Our House" was another welcome example of this.

In addition to the great music, the band regaled the audiences with humor and heart and fascinating stories of the 60's. Even if you know much of the CSNY lore, you'll likely learn something new. Behind the band, a screen played a new animated gif for each song. A large projected graphic is a welcome accent, however, each gif's looping amusement started to wain about mid song.

Also of note, as to supplement the storytelling, the band played a tune or two from each member's previous projects: Byrds, Buffalo Springfield, and the Hollies.

Live from Laurel Canyon received a standing ovation.

The Carpenter Performing Arts Center is located in Long Beach at CSULB. It's a lovely area and a beautiful venue.