Last week, I had the privilege of seeing Jamestown Revival not once but twice! And wow what a treat! I find that I am still quite tongue tied. How can I articulate what incredible artists and genuine nice guys they are? Well, let me set the scene.. yes, as I was informed last week, I am such a girl when it comes to telling stories - what can I say, I like details..
Prior to seeing Jamestown Revival live Thursday evening at a Seattle Living Room Show, I had only seen this video and a few others.. I was intrigued but did not know exactly what to expect. I went out on a bit of a limb and invited two friends - Braden and Katrina to the Seattle Living Room Show.
We arrived (not even that late!) and the show was already starting to fill up..with beautiful people because I am pretty sure those are the only kind who attend the Seattle Living Room Shows (like that Katrina? I gave us a round-a-bout compliment). Everyone took their seats and Edmund Wayne kicked the evening off. He had us laughing in no time! Then, Jamestown Revival took their places on stage...You know that moment of expectation where your holding your breath and have your fingers crossed hoping that a band is going to be good? I admit that is precisely what I was doing...
As the first note was struck I knew, deep down that this was going to be a good evening, not just a good evening, it was going to be a great one! One to remember. The kind of record worthy night that stories are written about - Jamestown Revival belonged in Ray Bradbury's Dandelion Wine... it was a moment when summer was distilled to it's very essence...
Jamestown Revival somehow manages to bottle up the special moments you want to "remember for always" in their lyrics.. and when you listen to their songs, the music infuses the place you are in at the present moment with a nostalgic mix of happy memories of the past and ancipation for what the future holds..
More than just the incredible music, what was so refreshing was how sincere Jonathan and Zach were. They spoke about sleeping overnight at Pilot stations, and the challenging transition from growing up in Austin, Texas to moving to LA...How taking risks for a dream is not always an easy path. When was the last time you heard a musician share with that kind of vulnerability? Their honest stories seemed to instill hope in the audience... dreams are worth fighting for.
At every Seattle Living Room Show I have been to up till now I have noticed that The Watt Sisters not only introduce talented artists, but also musicians who don't take the audience for granted. Part of what caused me to go to the Jamestown Revival show at High Dive the very next evening was that these guys were true southern gentlemen and stood by the door as guests were leaving, to shake hands and thank them for attending the show. I was completely caught off guard by this and I found myself literally speechless..
Friday evening, at the High Dive, with a larger group of friends and family in tow..I once again soaked up every amazing moment of the concert. As I surveyed the room prior to the show I noticed that Jonathan and Zach were making their way around greeting people and exchanging hugs. They were intentional in recognizing from the stage those in the audience who had come from the show the night before to show their support. Their appreciation definitely made an impact on me.
All in all, I want to encourage you if Jamestown Revival comes to your town, go support these guys - I know that you will leave their show inspired and with great memories!
Ps- Oh my gosh! I almost neglected to mention that I had the privilege of meeting the lovely Amber Lykins of Music is My First Language in person. If you have not visited her blog you definitely must! She is always discovering amazing music and is such an encouraging person to be around :)