JD McPherson and Kate Clover rocked and rolled at the El Rey Theatre
Rock n roll, they say, will never die. While the fashionable form of popular music has evolved over the last hundred years or so of its existence, no matter how far an artist pushes the boundaries they always remain tethered to the blues-based origin of the theses. An artist can resist that provenance or, in the case of the incredible talents that graced the stage of the El Rey Theatre on Friday night, find a nice little chapter in the rock n roll lexicon and make it their own, embracing tradition while offering their own unique, forward looking perspectives.
Kate Clover and her besuited band brought their signature firebrand style for an opening set that immediately blew the rafters off the El Rey. Blistering guitar and pounding rhythms chronicled the Apocalypse Dream of modern existence broadcast live on Channel Zero along the palm lined boulevards and neon-scorched drives of wild Los Angeles, a celebration of the grit and vitality that defines both Kate Clover the persona and Kate Clover the band. Ripping through the setlist like a gassed up motorbike tearing across fresh asphalt, Clover maintained her impeccable composure while snarling into the microphone amidst the band’s tumultuous ruckus - an exemplary demonstration of skill that melded unflappable cool with lethal, high-voltage energy.
Stream Kate Clover’s discography on Spotify and follow on Instagram.
JD McPherson’s recently released LP, Nite Owls, stands as an inflection point for an artist that initially built a name by digging deep into the roots of rock and soul to produce a trifecta of albums that celebrated the past while showcasing McPherson’s impeccable chops as a singer, songwriter, and composer. Nite Owls continues McPherson’s love for the old ways but finds the rocker expanding even further into uncharted sonic territory, something he joking referred to on stage as “surf goth.” It’s not an unfair label, if intentionally humorous, and accurately encapsulates the darkened shades that McPherson allowed to creep into the frame for this latest effort.
From a live perspective, McPherson has never sounded bigger and more energetic. The setlist focused heavily on his latest material, peppered with hits from earlier releases and a selection of brilliantly executed covers all delivered with an incredible level of skill from all players involved and sparked to life by McPherson’s undeniable charm and witty magnetism. As always, McPherson’s band is a stacked deck, but the defining element this time around is the addition of John Perrin on percussion duties. A true Rock-with-a-capital-R drummer, Perrin provided Bonham levels of rhythmic punch, imbuing each track with a powerful prehistoric stomp that served as a launchpad for a band already deep in the pocket and impressive feats of squealing guitar heroics from McPherson himself. A truly confident and muscular performance across the board.
Stream JD McPherson’s discography on Spotify and follow on Instagram.
Upcoming Shows
Nov 19, 2024 - The Crocodile - Seattle, WA - Tickets **
Nov 21, 2024 - The Commonwealth Room - Salt Lake City, UT - Tickets **
Nov 22, 2024 - Aggie Theatre - Fort Collins, CO - Tickets **
Nov 23, 2024 - Gothic Theatre - Denver, CO - Tickets **
Dec 28, 2024 - Cain's Ballroom - Tulsa, OK