Tan And Sober Gentlemen BY MARK DOLEJS On Saturday night, The Tan and Sober Gentlemen played at the Haw River Ballroom in Saxapahaw. They...
On Saturday night, The Tan and Sober Gentlemen played at the Haw River Ballroom in Saxapahaw. They brought their crazy styled mix of Irish folk and bluegrass with a punk flair, to a full house for their annual homecoming show.
The night was filled with high energy and a great selection of songs, like “Happiness Ain’t Happening,” “Rock Salt & Nails,” and “Hold My Hand.”
The band consists of Tucker Galloway on vocals, banjo, and guitar; Ben Noblit on bass; Eli Howells on fiddle; Alan Best on mandolin and accordion; and Jake Waits on drums. Notably missing from the stage was vocalist and guitarist Courtney Barefoot. At one point early on, the band FaceTimed with Courtney as she was home with the flu.
One of my favorites of the night was “Whiskey ‘Fore Breakfast.” This song has been around for quite some time, but the first time I heard it was when Mike Cross did it at a show in High Point, back in the mid 80s. I instantly recognized it and the memories came rushing back. A couple more of my favorites were “Lanigan’s Ball,” “Deep Chatham,” and “Corn Likker.”
The talent just oozes from these guys. Each is a master of the instruments that they play, especially skilled is Howells on the fiddle. It’s pretty obvious that they have known each other for many years, the smiles and interaction with each other goes way beyond just being in a band together.
The fellas invited several guests to the stage throughout the evening. Brianne Manning was one of those guests, her beautiful voice was featured on several songs, including “Fields of Athenry” and “Red Is the Rose.”
Family and friends joined the band during the encore for a couple songs, sung around a single condenser mic. Galloway’s parents joined them on stage for the final song, “The Pig Song,” a song that his grandmother passed down and taught him.
Barefoot was missed. She brings an extra element to the band and a different dynamic that I like better. And, if it’s possible, she brings the energy level up a notch. Regardless, this was a really fun night.
The night started off with Holler Choir, a talented band from Asheville. This trio played mostly original songs and had some great harmonies.
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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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