Railroad Earth Rock The Brooklyn Bowl
Railroad Earth returned to Brooklyn Saturday night for the next stop on their winter tour. I’ve had the opportunity to see these guys three times, and last night’s show was by far the best I’ve seen. Each member shines in their own right and the songs and jams delivered are with such grace. They really are a pleasure to watch.
The night flowed perfectly with a fine selection of old fan favorites, newer cuts from their newly released Railroad Earth, and covers. True, these guys are a “jam band,” but they don’t let their jams meander to the point of randomness and obscurity. Rather, select songs receive a nice extended treatment with delicately delivered solos that know when it’s time to wrap up. The end result sounds incredible — unforced and confidently executed. Perfect examples from last night were the show opening “420 Breakdown,” set one ending “1759,” and “Mission Man.” “Mission Man” in particular featured incredible interplay between all six members, which each one taking time to solo.
But jamming aside, the song selection last night was one of the best I’ve heard. Newer cuts like “The Jupiter And The 119” fit in nicely with older favorites like “Reuben’s Train (one of my personal highlights from the evening), “Came Up Smilin’,” and “Bird In A House.” In particular, I’m impressed how the newer songs still have that bluegrass feel even though at times, the banjo and mandolins are replaced by electric guitar and bass. To round out a perfect night, we were treated to a nice two-song encore melding the old (“Seven Story Mountain”) with the new (“Long Walk Home”). Here’s a band that just keeps getting better and better. Can’t wait for next time.
Below is a slideshow of some shots I took. I’m trying out Photosnack for the first time, so I’m interested in your feedback. Also, I filmed two videos which are also available below. Enjoy!
Saturday February 5, 2011 Brooklyn Bowl, Brooklyn, NY
Set I: 420 Breakdown, Saddle Of The Sun, The Jupiter And The 119, Reuben’s Train, Came Up Smilin’, Lone Croft Farewell, Potter’s Field, 1759
Set II: Happy Birthday To Andy, Cold Water, The Forecast > Mighty River, Peace On Earth, Hard Livin’, On The Banks, Black Elk Speaks, Mission Man, Bird In A House, Bringin’ My Baby Back Home
E: Seven Story Mountain, Long Walk Home
