By Cyndi Ford

 

Blackberry Smoke
Venue-Wild Bill's Duluth, Ga
10-2-10



Band members:
Charlie Starr-Lead vocals, guitar
Richard Turner-Bass, backup vocals
Britt Turner-Drums
Paul Jackson-Guitar, backup vocals
Brandon Still- Keyboards


Some call it country, others call it rock and roll; but whatever you call it, it’s Blackberry Smoke!

Blackberry Smoke’s hometown fans and friends were very excited about their triumphant return home. The band has been touring with Kid Rock, and Zac Brown, among others. The venue was Wild Bill's in Duluth, Georgia. The club is a spacious room that not only showcases country, but also showcases rock bands. Blackberry Smoke covered both. The band was tight. The drums and bass were grooving. The Guitar players played well together and Charlie Star is a total pro. From the tone of his guitar to the twang in his vocals you can tell he’s the real deal.

 

The song "Up in Smoke," (my personal favorite of the night) was a rocking song that was guaranteed to keep ya boots tapping. I was pleasantly surprised to hear them cover the Rolling Stones song, "Can't you hear me knocking." It was spot on. From the signature guitar lick to the space jam at the end it was a real treat. The band’s cover of a George Jones song reflected their country roots, which connected with their country fans.
 

Talk about pounding the pavement and putting many miles on the tour bus; these guys stay very busy getting their music to their fans. They are not afraid to work. They have recently been touring the US, playing over 180 dates and counting this year. They are on a roll to do as many as 250 shows. They have done one tour of Europe and plan to return soon.

  

They make ya wanna cry out yee-haw as they kick it out old school. You just know some good ole’ boy is going to shout out "Freebird " and the band just might oblige. If you are feeling a little rowdy and want a little country tempered with a whole lot of classic rock and roll, this is a band not to miss! As the sing in their song "I can feel a good one coming on,” These guys will "keep the party rocking till the break of dawn."

Some compare these guys to Lynyrd Skynyrd, which is a compliment to both bands. Both have that "it" element that scratches that itch that only a good southern band can. From loud guitars to honky-tonk piano to the undeniable slide guitar that is requisite for any proper Southern rock band these guys deliver in spades. So if you enjoy southern Rock/country bands Blackberry Smoke are the band to see.

Their star is on the rise. See them in a club while you still can.

 

 

Cyndi

Check out Blackberry Smoke  RIGHT HERE  and HERE