Escovedo—the perfect Valentine’s show

(this piece was published by Planet JH Weekly)Multi-faceted musical artist Alejandro Escovedo recently played his hometown’s biggest stage, Austin City Limits (ACL), for the third year in a row. But, this time it was different. During a recent honeymoon trip to Mexico with his wife, the couple endured a category four storm in which they had a long, terrifying night.“There was nothing more profound that I’ve experienced to write about,” Escovedo told Austin Chronicle last month.During ACL, Escovedo and his “orchestra” simulated gusts of wind and ocean swells via strings, horns, keys and drums while theater lighting produced the lightning strobes. The dramatic piece of music is exactly the type of adventurous theatrical diversion that has defined much of Escovedo’s career, who first performed in San Francisco punk group The Nuns in the late ‘70s.The sixty-three year old cancelled his recent winter tour due to fatigue, though his 2015 schedule is just as hectic. While this alone wouldn’t explain that he’s one of those possessed creators with uncompromising determination and integrity, his music stands tall and strong, often eloquently, and too often without the accolades it deserves. For reference, take in a listening session to his country-tinged Americana via 1999’s Bourbonitis Blues, or 2001’s A Man Under the Influence.All ticket holders will receive a complimentary champagne toast, sweets provided by Persephone Bakery, and a long stem rose for all the ladies.    Alejandro Escovedo, 7 p.m. Saturday at the Center Theater. $45-$55. JHCenterForTheArts.org, 733-4900.