Bristol’s O2 Academy is literally packed to the rafters tonight, in anticipation of Denver’s jolly Stetson-donning folkers Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats.
The night opens with an impressive set from UK alt-rocker Lion, who is the embodiment of female empowerment in style, channelling The White Stripes in sound with injections of the 1970's in her raspy Joplin-esque vocal.
After a mad scramble from the crowd to get a (not so) comfortable prime spot, Nathaniel and his Night Sweats, including a three-piece horn section, launch straight into those Memphis vibes they emanate so well.
They strut through the two-hour set list, showcasing screeching sax solos and wailing trumpet, with more than a heavy dash of soul; all of which are the vital organs of the latest album Tearing at the Seams, released in March 2018 via Stax records.
With sweet melancholy remaining the source of the musical flow, the Otis Reading style A Little Honey and I Need Never Get Old keep the current drifting.
Coolin’ Out demands almost regimented stomping in the grooviest form, making hairs stand on end and deliciously turning your spine to jelly.
S.O.B obviously brings the party, being the ultimate drinking song. With mighty shouts of ‘son of a bitch….get me a drink!’ as the crowd sings along, this is the highlight of the set. Ohhhh it makes you want to dance, so bad.
Powerfully perspiring Rateliff is an inspiration who stands out in the crowd among his older, equally soulful peers. And he seems politely modest about the whole thing too.
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