LIVE: BLUES TRAVELER – AUGUST 23, 2015 (Knoxville, TN)
Venue: The Bijou Theater
City: Knoxville, TN
Date: August 23, 2015
Review and Photographs by: Jeffrey Everett
A sold out Bijou Theater welcomed Blues Traveler to Knoxville as they continue their Blow Up the Moon Tour. Formed all the way back in 1988, Blues Traveler features singer/harmonica John Popper, Chan Kinchla on guitar, Tad Kinchla on bass, Ben Wilson keys, and drummer Brendan Hill. Known for their extended jam sessions, and bluesy harmonica, the band takes a turn on their new release Blow Up the Moon, with tracks featuring numerous guest artists (Jewel, Hanson, JC Chasez, and others). Accordingly the songs are diverse and have a different feel from classic Blues Traveler. With no opening act, the band waited for the crowd to get settled. They opened with the cover “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” (inserting Tennessee). Security kept the front rows from moving forward to stand at the stage, as is custom at the Bijou. This seemed to put a damper on the mood and the crowd was pretty flat. Everything turned the corner when they played “Run Around.” The fans all stood and were able to force themselves forward to the stage front. From that point on, they were dancing, singing and really getting into it. Blues Traveler live is a jam session similar to the likes of Phish, or the Grateful Dead. Popper was amazing on the harmonica and vocals. Without the guest artists, their new material sounded like the traditional Blues Traveler. A fun night and a great performance by the guys!
Setlist: Devil Went Down to Georgia – NY Prophesie – Defense and Desire – Bass – You Reach Me – Run Around – Hurricane – The Beacons – Keys – Creep – Things Are Looking Up – Regarding – Carolina Blues – Drums – Hook – The Mountains Win Again
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Category: Live Reviews, Photo Galleries