Neil Forever: The Music of Neil Diamond Symphony on the Prairie – Conner Prairie Amphitheatre, August 22, 2025

Audiophileoholic
1 day ago
2 min read

There’s something magical about a summer night at Symphony on the Prairie. Picnic baskets, bottles of wine, kids running in the grass, and a community gathering under the stars. This past Friday, that magic belonged to Neil Forever: The Music of Neil Diamond, a spectacular tribute led by the talented David Jacobson and his 12-piece ensemble.

What makes this yearly series so special is its all-ages appeal. I saw it firsthand as a 96-year-old fan in the front row sang every word, while just a few rows back, children no older than seven danced along without missing a beat.That’s the power of Neil Diamond’s music—it truly bridges generations.

From the opening notes, Jacobson and company dove headfirst into Diamond’s timeless catalog, delivering classics with both precision and heart. “Kentucky Woman,” “Love on the Rocks,” “Red Red Wine”—each song was greeted with cheers of recognition. But nothing compared to the moment the band launched into “Sweet Caroline.” As expected, the entire amphitheater erupted, belting out the famous chorus in unison, a joyful sea of voices singing “So good! So good! So good!”

Before the show, I had the chance to meet the band and speak briefly with Jacobson. His respect for Neil Diamond’s artistry was clear, and it came through on stage. His mission—to make these performances feel intimate while sharing them with thousands—was beautifully realized. The band didn’t just play Neil Diamond’s music; they celebrated it.

One highlight of the evening was the duet of “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” between Jacobson and vocalist Jeanna Campo. Their heartfelt performance drew one of the loudest ovations of the night, reminding everyone how deeply Diamond’s ballads still resonate. Campo’s presence, alongside Kayla Manzella’s harmonies, added a richness and emotional depth that elevated the entire production.

Every member of the ensemble contributed to that richness: Jacobson (lead vocals/guitar) was joined by John Cardoso (drums), Dylan Jacobson (guitar, keyboard, music director), Anthony Raffa (keyboard), Ted Wyman (bass), Glen Gabberty (electric guitar), Eric Ziegelmeier (percussion), Jeanna Campo (lead vocals), Kayla Manzella (vocals), Skyler Hagner

(baritone sax, horn section director), Glenn Gifford (trumpet), Andrew Pereira (tenor sax), and David Joseph (trombone). Together, they created a wall of sound that felt both polished and deeply human.

As my wife and I reflected on the evening, we agreed: not only was this a night of high-level musicianship, but it also reminded us of the enduring legacy of Neil Diamond himself. Jacobson and his ensemble don’t just honor that legacy—they keep it alive.