In his prime (roughly 1968-1975), Rod the Mod was one of the most compelling blue-eyed, booze-wise soul belters going. After making his name (and probably hundreds of groupies) with the Jeff Beck Group and the Faces, Stewart embarked on a hit-laden solo career. His unmistakable worldweary-yet-boyish rasp has grittied up some of the greatest songs ever to gain radio ubiquity: “Every Picture Tells a Story,” “Angel,” “You Wear It Well,” “The First Cut Is the Deepest” and, greatest of all, “Maggie May.” Like many rockers of his generation (Rod's 63), his powers have waned, along with his good sense, and he's descended into schlock and schmaltz. But this tour promises Rod's “Rockin' Hits,” which should keep things relatively corn-free.
Fri., Aug. 1, 8 p.m., 2008
