Peter Wolf is an institution, the musical equivalent of Mayor Menino's longevity in Boston politics. His early years at the MFA School as a painting major (and roommate of David Lynch) introduced him to a club scene of psychedelic R&B, fronting a band that opened for John Lee Hooker. If you only remember the "Freeze Frame" and "Centerfold" fame of J. Geils, you've missed out on a performer who conjures a smoky past. Wolf alluded to his status by listing defunct local clubs, noting that he has outlived "The Rathskeller" and all the rest.
This show was part of a 13-show New England tour, showcasing material from Midnight Souvenirs that was released last year. On album, Merle Haggard, Neko Case, and Shelby Lynne help to warm Wolf's voice. But tonight was all Wolf, and he pranced through his set with the confidence gained from a hometown crowd.