The Wild Feathers | El Rey Theatre (Los Angeles, CA) | October 29, 2014 |
© Kristen Coveleskie, 2014
Everyone left The El Rey Theatre Wednesday night with a smile on their face but how could you not smile after such a rousing set from Tennessee rockers, the Wild Feathers? The set began with a palpable energy shift in the room as the audience crept forward when the curtain rose and harmonica came in. At first scan of the stage, it might be difficult to figure out what’s going on because the Wild Feathers don’t have one lead singer. Instead, vocal responsibilities are shared by the four standing in a row at the front of the stage and there’s something about collaborative vocals that instantly builds a community feel, beckoning the audience to participate and share in the music originating from the stage.
© Kristen Coveleskie, 2014
There is also something warm and inviting about the music, itself. With roots in rock n roll, blues and country, the Wild Feathers deliver infectious melodies with foot-stomping beats, guitar solos, harmonies and the energy of a Southern dance hall. The band played songs from their self-titled debut like the fast-paced rocker “Backwoods Company” and the mournful “Left My Woman” which ignited a massive sing-along with the audience – harmonies included. Newer material was also shared, including a song recently written in Joshua Tree on the birthday of Gram Parsons in a room where the famous country artist once stayed.
© Kristen Coveleskie, 2014
Throughout the show, the band was full of energy, going all out, especially on the more jam-y songs that had drummer, Ben Dumas, bouncing out of his chair and the audience followed suit as dancing broke out across the theatre floor. The band was also full of thank yous, for the audience, for their families, for Los Angeles and for Warner Brothers (their record label): it felt like an evening of gratitude. The night came to a close with an encore/party as opening bands, Desert Noises and the Apache Relay joined the stage as the Wild Feathers lead a lively rendition of The Band’s “The Weight.” The joyful chaos was the perfect way to close the set. Smiles all around!