Photos by Kelly Hueseman
The Scene: My first night back at the infamous Red Rocks Amphitheatre this year was a chilly one, but warmed up quickly thanks to a sold-out crowd on their feet all night. It was easy to spot those traveling through as they were the first to hit the road when the temperature dropped. Let it be known – a May show at Red Rocks does not mean sundresses and shorts! For those who either braved the cold wind or came prepared, the music was our payoff.
Opener: The Wood Brothers. Out of the three bands on the bill, The Wood Brothers was the most interesting to see and hear. Their obviously-seasoned sound is beautiful set against the aged rocks that have towered over music legends for over a century. In fact, there were many people who showed up to see The Wood Brothers first and foremost, and the boys’ loyal following showed up early to fill the seats and sing along to favorites such as “The Luckiest Man”. I personally loved the reminder from Oliver Wood (singer, songwriter, and guitarist) to not feel too sorry for ourselves because well, look where we are. As he stared up at the setting Colorado sky and smiled, a sense of positivity blanketed the crowd who was all warmed up for Shakey Graves and The Devil Makes Three.
Shakey Graves: The young, exciting and let’s admit it – adorable, Shakey Graves was more enthusiastic than I’ve yet to see him live. He shines on guitar when commanding the stage solo, but seems to light up when joined by his band later in the set. Unfortunately, his guitar didn’t seem to be in tune most of his set, which was a bummer after the sound took more than four songs in The Wood Brothers set to get right.
The Devil Makes Three: I knew least about The Devil Makes Three out of the three bands playing tonight, but had high hopes as many friends and music lovers had told me how great the band from Santa Cruz, CA is. I had especially heard about the rip-roaring freshness of Lucia Turino (upright bassist), who certainly brings a rockabilly element to the band’s music on the albums and live shows I heard leading up to tonight’s set. I was, however, surprised by the lack of energy from The Devil Makes Three, and wondered why they were last to play. After a hauntingly smart, fun, and somewhat psychedelic set from Shakey Graves, the energy really settled down mid-way through The Devil Makes Three’s set.
Energy: B+
Musicianship: B
Sound: B-
Stage Presence: B-
Set/Light Show: A-
Overall: B
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