SPILL LIVE REVIEW: BLACKBERRY SMOKE @ ROOSTERTAIL MUSIC FESTIVAL, MADISON (IN)

BLACKBERRY SMOKE

@ ROOSTERTAIL MUSIC FESTIVAL, MADISON (IN)

JULY 5, 2024

The Roostertail Music Festival in Madison, IN, was buzzing with excitement on July 5, 2024, as a lineup of bands prepared to rock the holiday weekend away. The spotlight for Friday night belonged to the one and only Blackberry Smoke, a groovy southern-rock group hailing from Atlanta, GA.

If their name doesn’t ring a bell yet, trust me, it soon will! Since Blackberry Smoke began in 2000, they have steadily climbed the ladder of fame. Their last five albums earned them number spots on the charts.

As the clock struck 9:30 PM, Blackberry Smoke hit the stage to a roaring crowd. They kicked off with their catchy tune, “All Over The Road,” from the acclaimed album You Hear Georgia. It didn’t take a genius to see that these weren’t just any fans – they were diehard, lifelong enthusiasts who knew every lyric thrown their way.

Frontman, guitarist, and lead vocalist Charlie Starr, mutton chops and all, was good at making this crowd feel right at home, even inviting them all on a fishing trip as long as they left all the negative TV stuff at the shore, which brought thunderous laughter.

PURCHASE BE RIGHT HERE

Before each song, Starr would share anecdotes, like the backstory of “Dig A Hole” from their latest album, Be Right Here, delving into life’s choices between temptation and righteousness. With each tale, the crowd inched closer, pressing those in the front row against the fence that separated them from the band. If anyone was feeling uneasy, they sure didn’t show it. And restroom breaks? Forget about it – these fans were in it till the last note played.

Starr had already captivated the enormous crowd with the seventh lineup song, “Hey Delilah,” from their album, You Hear Georgia. He playfully handed over the spotlight to the audience, joining in harmony with enthusiasm and a sense of ownership, making it seem like they were the show’s true stars.

Starr isn’t the only one igniting the fans’ passion – he’s backed by a powerhouse band that makes him shine even brighter. Paul Jackson lends his vocals and guitar skills, Richard Turner provides backing vocals and slaps that bass, Benji Shanks rocks out on his guitar, Brandon Still tickles the ivories, and at the core, Kent Aberle pounds out the beats behind the drums.

If you are looking for top-notch American country rock music, look no further than Blackberry Smoke! With their blend of classic Southern charm and modern flair, they deliver a performance that doesn’t just entertain but also waves goodbye to troubles, leaving everyone in high spirits. So, get ready for a feel-good musical explosion!

(Photography by Julie Correll)

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