Patterson Hood, frontman of the Drive-By Truckers, played his next-to last show of the decade at Globe Hall for a devoted Denver audience as he wrapped up his solo acoustic tour. As he made his way through the set he spoke candidly to the audience as he always does, an endearing trait that has helped build his fanbase over the years.
When Drive-By Truckers took over The Ogden for two nights this past weekend, they brought with them the politically charged attitude of their most recent album, ‘American Band,’ and the blistering Southern Rock attitude that fans have come to know and love. With a set that spanned more than two hours, touched on eight of their albums, and even showcased a brilliant version of Neil Young’s “Rockin’ In The Free World” to close things out, The Truckers delivered!
Drive-By Truckers have always been outspoken, telling a distinctly American story via craft, character, and concept, all backed by sonic ambition and social conscience. Founded in 1996 by singer/songwriter/guitarists Mike Cooley and Patterson Hood, the band have long held a progressive fire in their belly but with AMERICAN BAND, they have made the most explicitly political album in their extraordinary canon.
A Saturday night, perfect Colorado weather, and a diverse, mini festival lineup at the greatest venue on the planet. It doesn’t get much better. After strong sets from Preservation Hall and Drive-By Truckers, Yonder Mountain String Band took the stage. Colorado Bluegrass fans, get back on the Yonder train! This band is tight!
Just beyond the Albertson’s parking lot we parked our car at Lowry’s premier Applebee’s rival, the Tavern Lowry. Below this chicken finger basket and artichoke dip destination lies the Soiled Dove Underground, a high-polish 300-person club. While having one of the most suburban locations imaginable, the little club is actually a pretty decent place to see a show and an especially ideal place for an acoustic show with Drive-By Truckers frontman Patterson Hood.
The Fillmore was awash in whiskey and weed as the Denver faithful eagerly awaited the cities first legal 4/20 celebration. Though this show wrapped up before the clock struck the first second of April 20th, anticipation was in the air as the Drive-By Truckers brought their own brand of Southern Rock and Roll to one of the biggest Front Range rooms they have played in a long time.
While the Boulder Theater was not packed for the Drive-By Truckers two-night run any newcomer could see that the band has a very dedicated fan base as most folks sang along with every word the Country Rockers cranked out. While Patterson Hood remained a center of attention with soaring guitar solos and his roaring voice and Mike Cooley countrified things a bit with some steady finger-picking and vocals reminiscent of Johnny Cash or Merle Haggard, the newest member, bassist Matt Patton, seemed to be having the most fun.