Sonny Landreth Slides His Way Into The Soiled Dove
(By Brandy Cordova) Sonny Landreth, a Louisiana-based blues guitarist, songwriter, and singer, performed Friday, June 29, 2012 at the new Soiled Dove. He is well known for his slide guitar wizardy and intense fingering movements on the fretboard. Accompanied by drums and bass, I got to witness the slide master do his thing in live.
The house was pretty packed. The new Soiled Dove, relocated in 2006 below The Tavern at Lowry in the Lowry Landmark Urban Community, had great seating, acoustics, lighting and drink service. This was my first time there since the move. I would have to say, that I do like the venue. The upgrades definitely made the night even better.
Sonny Landreth’s songs are mostly instrumental with a scattering of songs with lyrics. His sound reminded me of a jam band mixed with the sounds of Joe Satriani and Eric Johnson. Ironically, I found out after seeing him perform, that he has collaborated with Eric Johnson! As well as Eric Johnson, Sonny Landreth has collaborated with some other great guitar players that include Eric Clapton, Mark Knopfler, Robben Ford, Vince Gill, and icon Jimmy Buffett.
The majority of his songs had a blues rock feel. A good way into the set, Sonny says, “Let’s see if you have your reggae going on in here. Yes I said reggae.” Then they proceeded to play a fun reggae/blues/rock song. That piqued my interest. To be versatile in your sound, yet stay close to your style roots, is a sure way to capture your audience. Or any audience for that matter! I will also admit that I really do not listen to the blues that often, nor go to a blues concert, but seeing Sonny Landreth play opened my eyes and ears to a sound so integral to American music and culture.
Another thing that piqued my interest was the merchandise. I really like their spin on the shirts that said “got slide?”, it’s very clever. All in all, the night was good. The ambiance was wonderful. The drink prices were good. Appetizers were good. But most of all, the sight and sound of Sonny Landreth topped it all.
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