Who in an age of glossy, high-budget pop would ever think to launch a 12-piece touring band that fuses soul, R&B, blues, and southern rock styles? In today’s music landscape this question becomes all too evident as Grammy award-winning Tedeschi Trucks Band (TTB) continues its meteoric rise as one of today’s premier live acts. Led by husband-and-wife guitarists Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi’s dynamic sound merges multiple genres to become an immersive musical entity living and breathing musical entity.
Tedeschi and Trucks’ partnership has blossomed over time; their passion for their craft igniting a mutual attraction that transcends music; in their words “it’s almost like physical connection”. Their harmony can be heard both on record and during performances.
Tedeschi sings on Revelator with an expressive yet pure voice, mesmerizing listeners with her lyrics while demonstrating her range and changing of mood instantly. Trucks’ playing has never been more lyrical or expressive; his slide work flows effortlessly with each song’s rhythm.
Revelator is a stunning statement about our times, not only through its songs but in how it was recorded and produced. Working with producer Jay Joyce who has worked on critically-acclaimed albums for Willie Nelson, B.B King and Buddy Guy. Revelator stands as evidence of this group’s commitment to producing honest yet quality music that addresses current affairs.
At the close of their set, TTB delivered an emotionally intense rendition of their 2013 track “It’s So Heavy.” Tedeschi and her backing vocalists added artistic intensity to emphasize ecological destruction and political cruelty; serving as an emotional plea for kindness, solidarity, and empathy at a time when such qualities seem scarcer.
As soon as the lights went down, fans rushed forward for autographs and photos with the band members – Gainesville resident Greg Gillman aged 69 had long been an admirer prior to attending their performance in his hometown. He applauded and sang along, relieved to finally experience a show he’d long wanted to see. Unfortunately, TTB lost one of its founding members this year when drummer Oteil Burbridge passed away after a long fight against heart disease. Gillman says his loss hasn’t deterred him, and is excited for their upcoming return to the stage. “Their harmonies are truly extraordinary!” The CMN Music Journalism Course provides real-time experience and intensive feedback to develop your writing and expand your portfolio – find out more and apply here.
