Will Hoge is a gentle singer/songwriter from Nashville. There is quite a country feel to much of the material but his vocals have more of a Bob Dylan/Tom Petty feel. The second track has much more energy, which gives it more of a punk rock troubadour feel in the vein of tonight's headliner or Chuck Ragan. He seems very personable and relatable when he's talking in between songs, and his personality shines through. The tone of his voice often brings Cat Stevens to mind, particularly on the piano led 'End Of the World'. I definitely approve. It's quite emotional at times, especially on the poignant 'The Last One To Go', which with the addition of harmonica gives it a Bruce Springsteen feel. He plugs in his electric guitar for a stunning country soul number which sounds like Alabama Shakes fronted by Living Colour's Corey Glover. It is hypnotic and his voice is spectacular here. 'Jesus Came To Tennessee' has a 'The Devil Went Down To Georgia' feel but seems a bit flat compared to his other material. The final track weaves in a lengthy tale about the time he went to the Grammys and draws a deserved ovation at the end.
The first couple of minutes of Dave Hause's set do not bode well. His vocals seem muffled and it all seems a little lethargic. However, as soon as the band ups the tempo the venue crackles with energy and rarely lets up. His is the typical punk rock singer/songwriter sound which brings to mind Bruce Springsteen and The Gaslight Anthem. Even The Loved Ones' songs he plays don't stray from this template. Dave's vocals are excellent and the harmonies between him and his brother are even better. 'We Could Be Kings' is magical and prompts a huge singalong. Even with just guitars and piano, passion and spirit ripple through these songs and creates joy in both the band and the audience. 'Pedal Down' has a slightly darker edge. 'Please Be Here' has more of a country feel and the vocal harmonies raise it into Everly Brothers territory. It's THAT good. Tim Hause gets his own time to shine, taking lead vocals for a couple of songs, including his own 'High Hopes'. 'Sandy Sheets' with its accordion accompaniment is glorious. Even Green Day's 'Dilemma' is transformed. 'Hanalei' is captivating, the accordion adding extra depth. A rousing 'Autism Vaccine Blues' gets the crowd involved. Will Hoge joins the band for an encore of Tom Petty's 'Learning To Fly'. Church organ elevates final number 'Damn Personal' to spiritual levels. Triumphant.
Dave Hause ****
Will Hause ****
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