Former Squeeze frontman Glenn Tilbrook again is 'tempted' to give Maxwell's fans what they want

IN TUNE: In case you don't know, the beauty of seeing former Squeeze frontman Glenn Tilbrook is that he recruits YOU to sing backup. At 52, the babyfaced Tilbrook, who brought his solo tour to Maxwell's last night, still portrays the New Waver in his pinstriped suit, white pointed shoes and silk polka-dot scarf. The fun part is that he'll play through a song, tell you the parts he needs you to sing, then begin from scratch -- except for "Tempted," of course.

PHOTO: Lynn Paret for CLIFFVIEWPILOT.COM

As far as he's concerned, if you don't know every word of Squeeze's biggest hit -- actually sung by Paul Carrack, the voice behind Ace's "How Long (Has This Been Goin' On)" -- you shouldn't be there in the first place. Cause Glenn is gonna strum along while you belt it out.

It's understandable that the crowd got worked up each time he strummed the opening chords of a Squeeze song, be it "Another Nail in My Heart," "Up the Junction," or the incomparable "Is that Love."

He even did "Take Me, I'm Yours," which technically was partner Chris Difford's showcase. Tilbrook also spiced the night with songs from his solo projects: "Untouchable," "Hostage" and "Neptune."

At one point, he told of how he recently climbed to Base Camp on Mount Everest and played there.

"I was 'Easy Peasey,' " he said. But then, for a subsequent climb up Mount Kilimanjaro, he wasn't prepared and got sick.

The climbs were for Love Hope Strength Foundation, an amazing organization that provides support for cancer centers, as well as inspiration for those stricken by the disease.

As midnight approached during the second of two sets, Tilbrook gave the crowd what they wanted: Only the audience sang backup on "Tempted" instead of handling the full verses and choruses, as usual.

There was no arguing with the encore: "Pulling Mussels from a Shell," followed by a true classic "Goodbye Girl."

OK, Squeeze fans: Try and get that one out of your head today.

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