Concert Review: The Wild Feathers Bring Rock N’ Roll Glory To Bowery
There is nothing like some good ol’ country music to make someone want to grab a beer and stay in the moment. In some way, that is the mystique of country rock; it provides three minute excerpts of life’s woes and fun mottos to live by. The Wild Feathers heighten that mystique by playing with an intensity usually saved for soldiers.
It may sound like a weird comparison, rockers and soldiers, but for The Wild Feathers, their weapons are their guitars and they know how to use them. Although their sound is considered alternative rock, their Nashville roots ground them to a country baseline. Each band member has a certain energy to them and dynamic with their instrument that assures listeners their musicianship is like seasoned fruit; sweet to the taste. Combine that sweetness with the blues, and you have yourself, The Wild Feathers.
In this band, each man dances with his guitar like he was fighting for its best chance to reach listeners’ hearts. There is Taylor Burns, who can make both the guitar and audience cry with his talent. His vocal range is filled with a thick rasp that pierces vulnerability while his guitar riffs pierce your soul. Fellow guitarist and vocalist, Joel King has a smooth, cool vibe. Though his voice can give Axl Rose a competition in his “hey day,” his relaxed rocker demeanor makes you want to watch him gracefully play. Meanwhile, ending this strong vocal/guitar triumvirate is Ricky Young. His voice and guitar skills are like a solid set; never failing to deliver the notes and messages of a song, particularly of love. Ben Dumas, drummer, is also dynamic as he plays the drums with a passion that makes you wish you could feel so intensely about an instrument. In addition, their newest band members Brett Moore (keyboards) and Daniel Donato (guitar) are welcomed additions. Donato makes the guitar bleed music till it’s dry, which is perfect for the bluesier moments in their songs. Ultimately, these men prove man’s best friend is actually music.
My favorite moments of their concert are divided between two instances. First, when they begin to riff on their instruments and play, literally, side by side, you witness that these men are a brotherhood of rock. Music has bonded them closer than blood, and when it comes time to really show it, they improvise amazingly through vocals and instrumentals. Songs like, “On My Way,” “Sleepers,” and “Happy Again” proved they could bring a Southern jam to the heart of New York. My second favorite moment was when the audience sang along. Something about country rock makes you want to join in telling the tale. Their newest singles “Into the Sun” and “Overnight” are perfect examples of their rock sensibility and inherent soulfulness. Yet, they best capture the human spirit when the three vocalists unite in harmonies that could rival a Greek Chorus. “Lonely Is A Lifetime” is my particular favorite in showcasing the somber attractiveness of blues and a lulling melody.
Overall, The Wild Feathers are great for an amazing night of country- blues and good ol’ rock. They are fun, energetic, and intensely in love with their music. By the end of the night, you will be, too.
Running Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
The Wild Feathers played April 28, 2016 at the Bowery Ballroom in New York City. Check out their music here. Check out their official website and uy their newest album Lonely Is A Lifetime here.
