Elvis Predictable
by Larry Rohter
The Washington Post
September 28, 1974

The tickets said simply, "Elvis in Concert," and little more needed to be said about this event for which some Washington Elvis Presley fans have been waiting 18 years.

The capacity crowd at Cole Cole Field House was ready for him last night. It had patiently endured an hour of backup groups and inferior comedians prior to the arrival of "THe King". Elvis may have lived up to the expectations of the crowd but he certainly didn't exceed them.

It's hard to see what all the fuss was about. anyone who who has seen Elvis' TV specials or heard any of the several live albums that have flooded the market since he began touring again in 1970, could have predicted almost every song and each strained attempt at banter.

All the old familiar faces from the Elvis entourage were there. The sweet Inspirations and J.D. Sumner and the Stamps provided the background singing, and Presley's regular band, led by the exquisite lead guitar of James Burton, the instrumental backing.

Last night's show was the first date on Presley's fall tour. There are still a number of kinks that need to be ironed out. Presley's voice seemed weaker and hoarser than usual. Old standbys like "I Got A Woman," and "Hound Dog," however, were as tight as they have been in the past.

Presley's passing nod to new musical trends, as on "Bridge Troubled Water" was labored. His efforts were further hindered by horrendous acoustics that could have been avoided had another hall been chosen for the concert.

But that would be expecting too much. Elvis Presley is a fine showman and one hell of a smart businessman, but an artist he is not.

Courtesy of Francesc Lopez