Get ready to slip on those beloved cowboy boots and hat because tonight we’re going all out with some serious yee-haw vibes. One of America’s most esteemed country music icons will be gracing Manchester, bringing a whole lot of rock, blues and cowpunk for us to revel in.
If you haven’t heard of Jake Smith, also known as The White Buffalo, you’re in for a treat. He showcased his talent on the popular TV show Sons of Anarchy with unforgettable performances of ‘The House of the Rising Son’ and ‘Come Join the Murder.’ But what really blew me away was his cover of ‘Highwayman,’ originally by the supergroup The Highwaymen featuring Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson. I only discovered this gem a few months ago when I realized it wasn’t his own song.
The White Buffalo has managed to release an impressive seven albums in just 21 years, and now he’s set to perform at major venues across the UK, which is quite an achievement for any country music star. If you haven’t already, make sure to check out his latest album from last year titled The Year of the Dark Horse. It’s truly something special.
Opening up is Calafonian country rockers L.A Edwards consisting of three brothers Luke, Jay and Jerry Edwards. Luke is the lead singer/guitarist and it was originally his solo project back in 2015 when he started, but not long after his brothers Jerry (drums) and Jay (guitarist) joined. It’s been nothing but hard work for the brothers and it’s been paying off, with three albums including the recent Out of the Heart of Darkness, which came out earlier this year and a huge amount of touring globally. They also supported The Beach Boys and Jefferson Starship. I’m placing bets they’ll be supporting Bruce Springsteen on his next tour.
Luke and his spouse embarked on a venture of their own, establishing Bitchin’ Music Group as an independent record label. Their motivation behind this endeavour was to extend support to both emerging and well-established country and rock bands. Additionally, they ventured into the culinary realm by launching Bitchin’ Sauce, a vegan sauce brand; regrettably, its availability is currently limited to the United States and Canada. Is there anything this power duo can’t do?
Starting off with the melodic sound of a church organ in the background, ‘Already Gone’ sets the tone as the band takes to the stage and effortlessly delves into their bluesy repertoire, making themselves feel right at home. Showcasing more tracks from their latest album, including a seamless incorporation of a flute mid-song that blended harmoniously, it was evident that the crowd was truly embracing their performance.
In an impressive display of talent, Luke skillfully incorporates his guitar skills while flawlessly playing the harmonica during ‘The Crow.’ This particular track serves as an ideal introduction for those experiencing this band’s music for the first time. Luke’s excitement is palpable as he expresses his delight in performing at The Ritz – a venue known for its bouncy floor that adds an extra element of fun to any performance. Prepare to rock out with enthusiasm when they launch into ‘Hi Rite Now.’
As it turns out, Luke reveals another surprising facet of his life – he is actually ordained as a Pastor and can legally officiate weddings. In jest, he entertains thoughts of being hired due to his affordable rates before transitioning smoothly into ‘Surrender.’
The performance of ‘Day I Die’ was a heartfelt moment as the brothers sang in perfect harmony into one microphone, and then the instruments joined in! They concluded their set with ‘Let it Out,’ instantly reviving the atmosphere with its country rock vibe that Luke claims is inspired by Jack the Ripper, although not everyone believes him!
I must say, this band never fails to astonish me. It’s truly bananas how they manage to pack so many unexpected elements into such a short span of time! Leaving us on an exhilarating note and building up anticipation for The White Buffalo!
Cowpunk is a genre that exists and after reading this and seeing The White Buffalo in the same sentence that was truly an eye opener as it just makes sense, along with many other sub genres of country, blues and rock.
The White Buffalo open up with ‘Not Today’ one of the most popular tracks from the new album Year of the Dark Horse which came out last year and boy that was so great to hear live. The slower pace in ‘Winter Part 2’ added a touch of magic to tonight’s concert. The impressive setlist transported us to the countryside. The power of a bouncy venue pays off enhancing the energetic atmosphere in the venue and the impact of next track ‘Problem Solution,’ at one point the crowd paused to appreciate the piano and chorus as they built up anticipation. Once again, it felt like a lively hoedown showdown, intensified by the hard hitting drums.
One song that fans will immediately recognize is ‘Oh Darlin Darlin,’ a tune that starts off slow but eventually gets you stomping your feet and singing along with a beer in hand. It’s the epitome of freedom! There’s just something about Jake’s voice that sets him apart and takes his songs to another level.
Jake doesn’t talk much during the show as I think he just wants to play as many song as possible but when he has a chat while prepping his guitar for the next track some guy shouts to Jake that “hes’ a f*cking legend” and everyone laughs as Jake goes a little shy.
Cranking up to some good ol rock with ‘Home is in Your Arms’ along with favorites ‘This Year’ and ‘Don’t You Want It’. The feel-good vibes lasted all night long, especially when he played classics from his 2013 album titled Shadows, Greys and Evil Ways.
Slowing things back down with ‘Come Join The Murder’ any Sons of Anarchy fans like myself was excited for this, it’s a slow track it’s packed with emotion! Spicing up the swanky country goodness with ‘Stunt Driver’ the beowyayayayay from the guitar and bass with the drums *chefs kiss*. There was some insane improv instrumental solos which was surreal. Then again changing the mood with ‘I Got You’ which for some reason Jake kept forgetting how the song went to which we all laughed, even the band laughed as it did take a couple attempts but all was redemed when he managed to whistle perfectly to ‘The Whistler’.
Concluding with an exhilarating performance of ‘The Pilot’ that had the crowd singing and dancing, the uninterrupted country goodness lasted for a delightful hour and a half. And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, there was an encore! Jake took the stage, effortlessly strumming his guitar to deliver a heartfelt rendition of ‘Wish it Was True.’ However, as fate would have it, he let out a frustrated expletive when the guitar strings snapped at precisely the wrong moment. The evening reached its climax with another track from Once Upon a Time in the West called ‘How the West Was Won.’ It truly embodied authentic cowpunk vibes; although some may disagree, one cannot deny that this venue felt like a lively hoedown showdown—only missing cows and horses – bring on the moo!
For all you gamers out there, here’s another reason why you shouldn’t miss seeing The White Buffalo: he sang ‘I Know You’ from the Halo Wars 2 E3 trailer. Once again emphasizing his undeniable yehaw factor!
