Darrell Scott

Country music is definitely one of the most under rated genres in the world other than America, where it comes from, taking Darrell Scott as an example, this guy needs more credit for the incredible songs that he writes that have so much depth to them. “You’ll Never Leave Harlan” is one of those songs that is so emotive with such a clear story behind the inspiration of the lyrics, that you just can’t help but be swept off your feet by them. He has bridged the Atlantic however, by working with Robert Plant in his “Band of Joy” project.

When he performs live, the audience are ever so quiet when he performs, listening to every word that he sings. He sings songs such as “Long Time Gone”, and the optimistic “It’s a Great Day to Be Alive”, where the audience joins in supporting his voice in great harmony. The song is almost like a prayer, the way that he sings it, and plays the guitar accompanying himself.

Darrell Scott gave an amazing performance last night at the Sheldon. He took full advantage of the perfect acoustics of this beautiful hall. While I knew him to be an expert guitarist I had no idea he was such a masterful piano player as well. The Sheldon has a dramatic Steinway baby grand that Darrell began his show playing and turned to throughout the show. He had a quick and easy rapport with the small group that attended the show as he moved from the piano to guitar and his bouzouki. One nice gesture that he offered his fans is that he records each show and offers to sell a download of that show. It would be nice to go back and hear the songs from this set again especially the show closer when Darrell stepped away from the mics and amps and played his guitar and sang moving throughout the audience - magical.

I have seen Darrell Scott once before and he was amazing. I would highly recommend seeing him! This concert however was not as great. It wasn't because of Darrell, he was still excellent, however the opening act (though talented and funny) was quite conservative political and religious which just rubbed me the wrong way. More importantly however, the opener played for a full hour and then it was another 30 mins until Darrell Scott came on. Then, for some reason, he decided to take an intermission. At this point we left as it was already 11:15 on a sunday. Excellent music still, just wasn't a great experience.