Derek Trucks Band last night

[benjammin420]

In a word: amazing, in 2 words: ****ing amazing. I have most of their CDs, a few lives shows, seen every clip on youtube of him/them, but still it didnt prepare me for how incredible they are as a live band. First off, for a band thats build around a guitar player (like so many others, yet unlike so many others) they were as exceptional as a rhythm section. The drummer kept the groove going strong all night. The bass player was thumping and melodic. The percussionist added some very nice, exotic sounds and textures (especially when Derek gets eastern on the guitar). The singers voice was oozing with soul, and he showed incredible range. And the keyboard/flute player was particularly impressive as he played both very well (flute, organ, electric piano, and i believe soem sort of clav running thru a wah- which was very tasty) And of course the man himself, I dont think Ive ever seen a musician (guitar player or otherwise) with such command over his instrument. His mixture of control and freedom is as glorious as it is mindboggling. Also his combination of techinical ability and passion/feeling leaves Derek unrivaled among the current crop of guitarists. They whole set was full of great playing and great songs (mostly off the new album) but the highlight for me was the extended jam that started off raga and turned into 'My Favorite Things' (which is one of my favorite songs). Incredible band, you have to see them if you haven't. I can't wait til they come to town again.

[mlynn02]

you speak the truth.

superlatives fall short.

[mattwasserman]

DTB is one of the few "current" bands I listen to (although I have been getting into Doyle Bramhall II recently too). I am always blown away when I catch them live and do so whenever they are in the area.
Everything about that band is great and they have such a diverse setlist that it doesn't get repetitive. I had the pleasure of seeing Derek play with Santana when DTB opened up for them, it still gives me chills when I think about it.

[benjammin420]

I had the pleasure of seeing Derek play with Santana when DTB opened up for them, it still gives me chills when I think about it.

oh man, i can only imagine. there were several moments last night that reminded me of seeign santana. both very spiritual players

[cg]

I saw them a few years ago and essentially sat at his feet in a small club. My jaw is still on that floor. He is truly extraordinary.

[john b]

Nicely put! These guys are off the hook. I've seen them many times and they only get better, which is hard to believe. Everyone should give themselves the chance if they can.

[bc-cosmo]

I was at the show last night too--since it wasn't in a bar setting, Itook the opportunity to introduce my 16-year-old son (a guitar player), to the glories of DTB. From the first song, we were both blown away at just how good they are as a live band.

Funny you mention "Favorite Things," Benjammin. As we left, my son said, "we've got to learn that song!" So today we worked through the changes from the real book, and he's been in his room woodshedding the tune all day long!

An inspiring night, for sure.

:rockin

[benjammin420]

I was at the show last night too--since it wasn't in a bar setting, Itook the opportunity to introduce my 16-year-old son (a guitar player), to the glories of DTB. From the first song, we were both blown away at just how good they are as a live band.

Funny you mention "Favorite Things," Benjammin. As we left, my son said, "we've got to learn that song!" So today we worked through the changes from the real book, and he's been in his room woodshedding the tune all day long!

An inspiring night, for sure.

:rockin


Thats great, I learned the lick by ear years ago, but i need to learn the proper chords now so i can teach it to my band. I like how they kept going off on solo tangents into different grooves and styles, than come back to the theme, then go off in a whole other tangent, and on and on. I forget which song it was towards the end of the set, but they were jammin and started playing "Who Knows" by Jimi Hendrix/Band of Gypsies, that was pretty unreal too. Those guys are sharp man

[bc-cosmo]

Yeah, when Yonrico started singing "They Don't Know," it was pretty special. Tight and funky as all get-out!

[jcs]

you have to catch the live shows!

first saw derek open for eric johnson,,,,yes i was right in front of derek and he and the band did not dissapoint!!

you wanna hear how well a world class slide player into a bf super reverb/gibson sg combo can sound in a world class band? your answer is the derek trucks band,this is as good as it gets imo!!

[gearguy]

there is something about slide guitar I find so mysterious. As a guitarist for 15+ years I still find it very elusive. I've only played slide a handful of times, but when I hear guys like this play...I feel like I should leave it alone and admire it from afar. Kinda like a majic trick...I don't want to know the secret...just enjoy the trick....

[KPO]

I'm going to see DT at Northsea jazz in Holland next week.
What Jeff Beck is for Stratplayers, is dereck for slideplayers, totally in control, pushing the boundaries.

[Jazzydave]

They're coming to play a blues festival here in the DC area soon and we can't wait. Derek is one of the "must see" artists on my list.

[JS335]

Thanks for the review. I'm seeing them in August at a small outdoor park. Can't wait.