Musical Mondays: Blacklight

Blacklight is a concert performance of Jomama Jones, the alter ego of the show’s creator Daniel Alexander Jones. It is a show that is a blend of personal stories—funny and emotional—some light joking with the audience, original songs, and an overarching theme of mysticism. Originally put on by the Public Theater at Joe’s Pub, the show is in a limited run at Greenwich House. This is the same Greenwich House where Sweeney Todd just closed, and I will say it was equally impressive as a pie shop and a night club. Super different but both shows did a great job transforming the space.

At its best, Blacklight is really good. Jones tells powerful stories that examine being black in America (both currently and historically) that hit with emotional and real punches. Jones weaves an impressive narrative discussing her Aunt Cleotha from the south as well as telling the crowd something no one disagreed with—we have to do better. She also told some painfully funny stories about a young person discovering sexuality in the form of Prince—a story that I think a lot of people share. It was very funny, and it was very emotional in equal parts. I thought the stories told were the highlights.

The songs, all original and written by Jones, were fine. A mix of funk, R&B, and punk with definite Prince inspirations were certainly pleasant to listen to. I would rather listen to Prince, which is certainly no indictment of Jones as I’d rather listen to Prince then most sounds in life including my own voice. Jones is a very talented singer, and I didn’t dislike any of the songs. Writing this review, the day after seeing the show, though, I don’t have a single song that left a lasting impression. They were fun songs, but it never felt like anything that would stick with me for the music.

In addition to the songs and the stories, there was an overarching theme of mysticism and the concept of meeting at the crossroads. During the show, Jones and her backup singers handed out these tarot type cards.

I’ll admit—I love astronomy. The moments Jones was discussing black holes and supernovas I was very excited. I hate astrology. I think astrology is just a way people deny science and use artificial signifiers to excuse their own behavior and actions. So any time there is an element of mysticism or astrological signs, I become very hesitant and resistant. While the crossroads concept led to really cool set and some wardrobe choices, it was personally my least favorite part of the show. It felt like an overall theme that took away from the parts of the show that I really enjoyed. It might work well for someone who looks upon things more favorably, but I am not that person. If you are, power to you. I will say it was done in a way that I found much less annoying than I often feel towards such things.

Blacklight had a lot going for it—Jones is undoubtedly talented both as a writer and a singer. The stories were strong—really strong—and caused the audience to face truths. And the story about Prince? Highlight of the evening.