Here's a good way to liven up a case of the midweek blahs--Delta Rae will be performing at The National tomorrow night! This up and coming group, who hail from just a couple hours south of here (Durham, NC), is led by siblings Ian, Eric, and Brittany Hölljes, and base their soulful folk sound around the mix of rootsy songwriting, acoustic instruments, and powerful multipart vocals. The three siblings and additional vocalist Elizabeth Hopkins create some amazing four-part harmonies that give their songs a fierce, passionate feel. The sound is further driven by Delta Rae's choice to forgo a standard drum kit in favor of clattering percussion that is played on found objects like chains and garbage cans as often as on actual drums. The spirit of old-time Appalachian folk songs comes through in their music just as clearly as the Southern gospel, classic Nashville country sounds, Memphis soul, and even New Orleans jazz influences that all show up on their debut album, Carry The Fire, released this summer on Sire Records. Delta Rae will light up all of RVA with their intense live performance at The National tomorrow night, and you owe it to yourself to be there to see it happen. The show will also feature opening sets from two excellent local groups: Long Arms, led by Richmond music veteran James Menefee (Fun Size, River City High) and featuring members of Goldrush, will capture your attention with their Replacements-inspired rock n' roll jangle; while The Kindling Kind, featuring dynamic frontwoman Miriam Martin, will start the evening off right with their mix of delicate folk balladry and ringing alt-rock guitars. You don't want to miss this show.
WHAT: Delta Rae In RVA!
WHO: Delta Rae, Long Arms, The Kindling Kind
WHERE: The National, 708 E. Broad St.
WHEN: Wednesday, October 17, Doors open at 7 PM
ADMISSION: $12.50--advance tickets available HERE
Here's a great example of what Delta Rae are capable of in a live environment. In slightly less than 5 minutes, they run through a medley featuring four songs from their debut album: "Morning Comes," "If I Loved You," "Is There Anyone Out There," and "Bottom of the River," and boy do they give those songs all they've got! The vocals will blow out your crappy computer speakers if you're not careful, and be sure to keep an eye on the drummer so you can spot all of his unusual instrumental choices. Imagine how awesome a full set like this is going to be!