Lyle Lovett. When some hear his name either an image or a song pops into their mind’s eye. Or ear, as it were. For me, it’s a song: “Hello. I’m the guy who sits next to you and reads your newspaper over your shoulder, wait! Don’t turn the page … life is so uncertain ...” It grabbed me the first time I heard it when it came out in 1989 – on the Big Band album. Witty lyrics, a dynamite horns section … love it. Music, and that Francine Reed! Francine is a dream of a lead backup singer. Ms. Reed’s played the Opera House here in Boothbay Harbor and is a mighty potent force.

Lyle is coming to the Merrill Auditorium Aug. 1 so the acoustics will be primo. His last CD, released back in 2012, “Release Me,” is one great tune after another. Country, old time jazzy, swing, sometimes bluesy music. “She’s the Girl with the Holiday Smile” … the piano, fiddle, stand up bass … OK, look out – here comes that way back machine …

Tommy was the older brother of a dear high school friend of mine. Anyway, in addition to watching him shine up his Harley Chopper (think Peter Fonda in “Easy Rider,” ’cept no American flag on the gas tank!), Tommy also played a stand up bass he named “Louie” and he loved that bass. He loved plucking those big bad thick strings … I think at a few gigs I even saw his mustache quivering with excitement …)

Back to topic. Lyle Lovett. There’s his music and lyrics, the incredible songwriting, I’ve always loved his storytelling style. He takes his time, lulls you into his sphere with grace, quiet charm, and that voice. A tenor, Lyle can really move his listeners. (Tenors work best for me, anyway.)

Think “Nobody Knows Me.” “I like cream in my coffee, and I like to sleep late on Sunday. And nobody knows me, like my baaby ...” SWEET! God and Goddess I love that song.

Oh, yea, in addition to the distinctive voice, music and songwriting, there’s Lyle’s hair. I’ve always wondered: Would it be soft like lamb’s wool with maybe a curl or two catching around one of your fingers, OR would it be scratchy, but with a billowy feel? 

There’s really too many moving, amazing, I-think-I-wanna-dance Lyle Lovett songs to mention in this li’l old column. I saw Lyle Lovett only once – but with Bonnie Raitt (talk about a stellar concert, right?) … and so did a lot of you out there. It was pretty damned exciting. I think I need an encore! Tickets for his concert at the Merrill go on sale March 16 (that’s this Friday). All are reserved seating: $75, $55 or $45. Call to charge by phone at 207-842-0800 or visit www.porttix.com

And speaking of VOICES … remember Ann Wilson of Heart? The brunette lead singer with a powerful Grace Slick-like voice? Well, while Lyle’s coming in August, Ann will be in Portland THIS WEEKEND at Aura in Portland! I know, right? I’ve heard lots of fantastic things about the new Aura. All remodeled with reserved seating – I know. I haven’t been there in YEARS, I’ll admit, but it would feel kinda weird not going in, heading for the bar, then grabbing a seat at one of those long tables ... or, am I thinking of a completely different bar? 

“Crazy On You.” One of the best songs – ever. That excellent guitarist Nancy Wilson on that fab intro ... Ann’s strong, sexy voice … “Magic Man” … another song from Heart’s first album. Back in ’75 when that self-titled album came out – it was a-spinnin’ on everyone’s turntable (except maybe my brother-in-law Alan’s. His probably had The Fugs  or Ramblin’ Jack Elliott (Alan, a brilliant guitarist – did expose me to a lot of great Village bands and folk singers). 

Back to Ann Wilson. Remaining tickets – and there are a few – start at $87. Call 1-844-379-0370. Aura’s at 121 Center St.

“And, please.  If it’s not too late, make it a …. cheeeeeeseburger.”