By David McGraw~
I arrived at the Vina Robles Amphitheatre front gate on Sunday night, excited to see two of my favorite bands play.
Blackberry smoke is very much my ‘feel good’ go to, these days with their up-tempo southern charm, and catchy bluesy riffs. With songs like ‘Everybody Knows She’s Mine’ and ‘I Feel a Good One Coming On’, I find it hard to keep my foot from tapping and my head from rocking when they come through the speakers.
Gov’t Mule appeals more to my Blues taste, reminding me of shooting pool in a Smokey, poorly lit country/ blues bar. My ‘reflection music’ if you will, as they take your senses on a sultry, electric, sexy, instrumental ride that may last 10-15 minutes with some songs.
The line was surprisingly short at will call when we arrived, and the folks in the booth were nice and seemed happy to help me. As I entered the venue I was greeted by a well-groomed, quite classy, clean, intimate setting and immediately understood the appeal of this place to locals and folks traveling. It is a warm, persona, inviting atmosphere indeed.
Blackberry Smokes started promptly at 7pm, and the feel good vibes flowed. People danced and smiled, and in that moment were able to unwind and let go of their day to day stresses. Blackberry Smoke hit all their classics, along with a couple of covers to perfectly bring in Gov’t Mule’s set. Tasteful and fun to say the least.
Gov’t Mule took the stage next and brought the crowd to their feet with their rippin’ guitar and drum solos. The mood changed slightly as they atmosphere took on a more serious feel. ‘Soulshine’ was their standout moment for this listener as they drove home that soulful message with authority and grace. The sound was perfect in the amphitheater and the lighting was world class, perfectly wrapping up this rocking, soul stimulating, memory making experience.
Thank you to Vina Robles for allowing me to be a part of such an amazing night.
