Photos: Rudy Lu
Per Wikipedia:
The term “Americana music” was defined by the Americana Music Association (AMA) in 2020 as “…the rich threads of country, folk, blues, soul, bluegrass, gospel, and rock in our tapestry.”] A previous 2016 AMA definition of the genre included rhythm and blues, with additional comments that Americana music results “in a distinctive roots-oriented sound that lives in a world apart from the pure forms of the genres upon which it may draw. While acoustic instruments are often present and vital, Americana also often uses a full electric band.”
This definition is certainly stretched by SUSS(Northern Spy Records), is a 3 man band that performs no hummable or danceable tunes that are typical for the genre. Instead, they use traditional instruments that may have their sounds shaped by electronics and loops to paint mesmerizing soundscapes. All creating impressions of the American landscape, from the vast expanses of the plains, to individual fields, plants, farmhouses and small towns.
To enhance the audience experience, video artist Brett Phares, created a projected slide show around and behind the band.
The resulting experience truly cannot be described and has to be experienced.
For enhanced effect, a few throw cushions were placed in front of the stage and audience members were invited to lie down on them to get a full effect. I did experience this for s brief time, some of the gallery reflects the experience.
This was Suss’ last performance of the calendar year. They plan to be at the Big Ears Festival in Knoxville in March along with Brett. Northeast US dates in NYC, Philadelphia and Boston in April. See https://www.sussband.com/ for details.
Jonathan Gregg (@thejonathangregg): Pedal Steel, dobro
Bob Holmes(@bobholmesmusic): Mandolin, baritone guitar, acoustic guitar, harmonica, violin, Keyboards
Pat Irwin(@patirwin100percent)]: Electric guitars, National guitar, eBow, harmonium, keyboards, melodica, loops
Setlist:
Wichita, Train, Winter was hard, Restless, Flight, Birds, Shimmer, Winter was hard (reprise), Late Night Call, Needles
Encore: Northwind, Grace
Gallery:
