Concert Review: Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band (Ritz Raleigh)

BY MARK DOLEJS

Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band took to the stage at the Ritz in Raleigh as if they had been cooped up at home for the last two years. Coming off the April 2021 release of Dance Songs for Hard Times, The Rev. and his band showcased three songs from the record, "Ways and Means," "I'll Pick You Up" and show closer "Rattle Can."



The stage backdrop features the bands name written in the font used on the cover of Dance Songs for Hard Times. It also features a 1970 Cadillac Deville with four glaring headlights shining out from behind Max Senteney's drum kit.



Always entertaining and overflowing with excitement, Peyton played several different guitars throughout their set. The Rev. was joined on stage by his wife, "Washboard" Breezy Peyton, on the washboard, and drummer Senteney. In addition to his slide guitars, Peyton broke out a harmonica for the bridge on "Poor Until Payday."



As Peyton introduced the members of the band, he started introducing the bass player and then jokingly paused and made reference to his thumb as the bass player. Part of his trademark sound is Peyton's ability to play a bass line simultaneously as he plays his guitar.



They opened their set with "My Old Man Boogie" and rounded out the night with "Pot Roast and Kisses," "Clap Your Hands," and "This Little Light of Mine." The crowd was really moving to the beat during set closer "Rattle Can" when Washboard Breezy lit her washboard on fire near the end of the song, closing out a set of nonstop rockin'.

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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