Despite the major sound issues that nearly hampered her set, singer-songwriter Neko Case (@nekocase) headlined what turned out to be a lovely second night of the Lowdown Hudson Blues Festival outside the Winter Garden.
Neko Case’s stage monitor “blew up” while the stage was being set up for her performance, thrusting several waves of feedback into the audience. Given this situation, she was forced leave all of her electric guitars on their respective stands and stick with her trusty acoustic. Lucky for Ms. Case, most of her songs can make the adjustment, and her brilliant band easily made the transition. Most importantly, it was still very enjoyable for the audience. Her set covered the span of 4 LPs, 1 EP, and a new song “about dating your dad who turns about to be your mom”. Wait, what?
Opening for Ms. Case was the “Screaming Eagle of Soul” himself, Charles Bradley (@charles_bradley). At 63 years old, the man has more stage presence and energy than some band frontmen a third his age. Let’s face it, this can be said about many of the artists on his label, Daptone Records. Along with bands like like Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, The Immaculates, and Lee Fields & The Expressions, who bring the retro soul movement, Charles Bradley is a priceless treasure. Unfortunately for us, though, it was apparent that Mr. Bradley was having trouble hearing himself over the band.
Opening the day’s festivities was He’s My Brother, She’s My Sister (@hmbsms). A brother/sister act that brought a mix of hippie folk and rockabilly. Lead singer/sister Rachel Kolar reminded me of Edie Brickell and percussionist Lauren Brown is just the cutest thing ever.