Concert Review: The Dead South (Ritz Raleigh)

BY MARK DOLEJS

On May 15 at the Ritz in Raleigh, The Dead South began their Sunday night show with "Diamond Ring." Followed by "Every Man Needs a Chew," the tone was established quickly for their 18 song set. The whole night was a foot stompin' sing along with this neatly dressed quartet.

From Regina, Saskatchewan, the band is not your average bluegrass band. Two of their albums have won the Juno Award for Traditional Roots Album of the Year, Illusion & Doubt and Sugar & Joy. Songs from both albums were played throughout the night.

While songs were played from all of their full length albums, TDS played eight songs from their 2014 release Good Company. Among those songs were, "Honey You," "In Hell I'll Be In Good Company," and set closer "Banjo Odyssey."

Lead vocalist Nate Hilts plays the guitar and mandolin and is joined on vocals by Scott Pringle, who also plays the mandolin and guitar. Rounding out the quartet are Danny Kenyon, vocals and cello, and Colton Crawford on banjo. Each musician is a master of his respective instruments.

Midway through their set, the crowd joined in singing with the band on "That Bastard Son," easily heard over the loud music. Both "Dead Man's Isle" and "The Dead South" are reminiscent of traditional sea shanties, and had the crowd dancing and singing along.

The stage was filled with smoke most of the night, highlighting the well done light show. While the crowd had easy access to the bar, the band would occasionally pause for a much deserved sip of whiskey or beer on stage. All in all, a fantastic night. Don't miss The Dead South if you have a chance to catch one of their shows!

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MARK DOLEJS

Photography is an avenue that Mark Dolejs uses to learn about the people and places that cross his path. After more than 30 years as a photojournalist, Mark enjoys concert, macro, and roadside photography. Follow Mark on Instagram at @solidrockpix.

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