POP MUSIC REVIEW : Revamped Earth, Wind & Fire Returns

That wasn’t the real Earth, Wind & Fire that showed up for its sold-out show on Monday at the Pantages Theatre. On the first of its two nights there, this totally revamped outfit did a bare-bones version of EWF’s extravagant ‘70s shows, which featured elaborate sets, gaudy costumes and levitation stunts.

Back then, EWF was one of the most popular bands in the business. Now, touring for the first time in six years, it’s a nostalgia act, serving up such oldies as “That’s the Way of the World,” “Reasons” and “Shining Star” in its unique, far-ranging style, which encompasses R&B;, jazz, pop, funk and gospel. No group has ever mixed lush harmonies and rampaging funk like EWF.

As oldies shows go, this was a real crowd-pleaser, boasting tight, high-level musicianship. Even lead singer Philip Bailey, whose falsetto can be ragged and out of control, kept a tight rein on it throughout.

Only Bailey, bassist Verdine White and percussionist Ralph Johnson remain from the good old days. The other eight musicians have joined since the late ‘80s. Conspicuously absent was leader Maurice White (Verdine’s brother) and the sound of his trademark African thumb piano. He did pop out on stage briefly during the encore, to ear-splitting cheers.

Still, the show felt incomplete. The old flash, special-effects wizardry and over-the-top gaudiness were as integral to its shows as the pretty harmonies, and it was disconcerting to see the great EWF reduced to an oldies act.