Mahaiwe, Great Barrington, MA
August 21, 2014
by Eric Sutter
Denim-clad alt-country band Runaway Saints debuted their
sound at Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center to an enthusiastic response. These
Nashville, by way of Providence, RI, songsters sang about loves lost, found,
and shared in an acoustic folk-rock/country format. The band opened with the
love song "Caroline." Stand-outs in the course of the evening
included "Loretta Lynn," about missing her voice on the radio;
"California's Girl," about losing a woman to the Golden State, and a
rave-up rootsy rock song "We Got Love" with mandolin, guitar and
banjo. "Headed Home" carried it full circle to their next day's gig
back home in Pawtucket.
This stop at Mahaiwe was important because it was the last
venue on their current tour to feature Jonny Lang. Jonny Lang's new century
sound is a slight departure from his 1997 debut blues-rock style. Part
blues-rocker and soul singer, his approach added a sweeter soul sound to his
vocal. Always edgy and passionate, Lang projected a strong stage presence with
tribal inspired rhythms that resonated in the soul. The scorcher "Blew Up
(the House)" was electric. "Freight Train" was powered by his
frenzied lead electric guitar delivery. The Tinsley Ellis cover, "A
Quitter Never Wins," harkened back to the debut album "Lie To
Me."
The title cut of Lang's 2007 Grammy winner, "Turn
Around," expressed turning life around in its lyrics. Rhythm guitarist
Akil Thompson turned out a great solo on "Red Light." Lang showcased
nice guitar tone throughout. Stand-out funky keyboardist Dwan Hill also hit the
mic on Stevie Wonder's "Livin' For The City.” Lang found his true voice on
his own "Fight For My Soul" from his first studio album. This time around,
a fresh, crisp joyful sound filled the hall with spirited passion. Connecting
effortlessly with the audience, Lang performed "Wander This World." His encore was the familiar
"Lie To Me" featuring a subtle acoustic guitar with a break-in by his
blues band in a full tilt finale. Right on!
