Final performances of Paul Emery’s A Thousand Kisses Deep: The Songs of Leonard Cohen on Nov. 8 and 9

These will be the final performances of Paul Emery’s A Thousand Kisses Deep: The Songs of Leonard Cohen.  The review features 13 musicians in a triumphant tribute to one of the most fascinating and enigmatic singer/songwriters at the Nevada Theatre in historic Nevada City California on Friday and Saturday, November 8 and 9.

Emery and vocalist Anni McCann attended a Leonard Cohen concert in 2010.  “Paul and I had both just seen his live show, where you could say he quite literally levitated his audience,” said McCann, who sings iconic Cohen songs such as “Hallelujah,” “Dance Me to the End of Love” and “Joan of Arc” with Emery during the show.

“When Paul asked about doing a show to celebrate Cohen’s music, at first I thought, ‘What the heck are you thinking Paul? Leonard is still touring!’ Then I began combing through his extensive list of recordings, all the while discovering the vast richness of his repertoire. I was definitely in!”

“For some people Cohen’s music is just beginning to resonate,” Emery said. “His melodies are timeless. His poetry is deep and profound, and constantly offers new insights and reactions years after their first hearing. The lyrical depth and beauty of Leonard Cohen’s music is an endless well of inspiration to those who love his music. The songs never grow old and each performance reveals a new layer of inspiration to the audience and players alike.”

Singer Kimberly Bass adds, “His music has a richness that stirs the soul. For me, it’s the way he looks at the world and our humanness, our nakedness in this harsh yet beautiful world.”

The lineup includes stellar northern California musicians — Paul Emery, Anni McCann, Kimberly Bass, Eleanore MacDonald, Kellie Garmire, Chris Golden, Mark McCartney, Perry Mills, Brady Mills, Peter Wilson, Stephen Holland, Arthur Gould & Randy McKean.

In 2011, the group assembled for three sold-out evenings at the Center for the Arts in Grass Valley and went on to perform at the Nevada Theatre, the Crest Theater and 24th Street Theatre in Sacramento.

Featured will be San Francisco light show pioneer, George Holden. In 1960s-1970s, he created light shows at the Fillmore and Maritime Hall. Vintage images and footage of Cohen will be part of the mix.

“Coupled with the richness of Leonard Cohen’s writing, your arrangements, and the seasoned musicianship each of you bring, the show left me deeply touched… …one of the most rewarding evenings of entertainment I can remember, not just here, but anywhere.” – Jordan Fisher Smith

“We went to the Leonard Cohen A Thousand Kisses Deep show last night at the Crest. It was fabulous!!! I’ve been a Cohen fan for years and his music was beautifully interpreted by the wonderful group of artists. One of the best shows I’ve been to in years. Thanks to Paul Emery and his incredibly talented groups of musicians. A truly great night.” – Pamela Vann

“All I have to say is a lot! Went to see Paul Emery’s “A Thousand Kisses Deep” last night. The show was beyond wonderful! …They warm cold nights, and hearts of all sort. I loved it. The memory will be with me for a long while. The best thing I can say about “A Thousand Kisses Deep” is, the next time they’re around – I will be too.” – Bill Gainer – Gainer’s Poetry Emporium