I had no idea what expect when I went to see Ayron Jones and The Way open for Lukas Nelson (son of Willie) and Promise of the Real last Friday night at the Wild Buffalo in Bellingham. I wish I had gotten there earlier to see more of the opening set. I was blown away. The energy of Ayron Jones and the Way was so amazing, I got lost in it and just had so much fun. The drummer alone was a spectacle to watch. It was hip hop meets Jimi Hendrix and it was awesome. Each of them were such skilled musicians with incredible stage presence and charisma I was worried for Lukas Nelson to have to follow that.
In his own rite Lukas Nelson moved beyond the style of his father into a new realm of cool of his own invention. If you are an americana hippy like me you'll totally get it. (Even if you are a regular hippy). A beautiful arrangement mixed with acrobatics. Licks reminiscient of Phillip Sayce, wild yet so controlled and surprisingly touching lyrics that seemed to bare his soul. It was a little bit country and little bit rock'n roll mixed with a touch of indie style. Powerful performances by both bands that complemented each other so well.
If you have an opportunity, you have to go see these guys. Both bands are top in their craft, I think you'll regret it if you don't see them perform live. And I can't tell you how much fun it was to see them in such a small venue, up close. I have a feeling you won't be able to see them like this for too much longer before people learn who they are and the crowds start pouring in.
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