Ray LaMontagne and the Pariah Dogs

Hands-down, there is nothing I look forward to more, than outdoor concerts in the summertime. Since moving to the CLE, I have come to love Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica (formerly Nautica Pavilion – which personally I like that name better, but whatevs). It is an outdoor venue equipped with stadium seating under a giant white tent, nestled on the shore of the Cuyahoga. No question, this little slice of concert venue heaven is my favorite place in the CLE.

Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica

Last night my main squeeze and I had the pleasure of catching the uber talented Ray LaMontagne and the Pariah Dogs at said pavilion. My goodness. Forgive me, I am not quite sure I have the words to fully describe how truly amazing they were live. I seriously felt like I was listening to their albums amplified on the sound system. Ray’s voice was so pure and flawless, and the various instrument playing was beyond impressive by all on stage.

I have to be honest, I’ve only been exposed to this beautiful music within the past year, so I am by no means a die-hard fan. Just yet. And the hubs wasn’t familiar with the musicians at all, but I had a hunch that he would become a fan immediately. After merely seconds into the first song, I caught the hubs tapping his toe out of the corner of my eye. Do I know this guy or what?

There were a few songs I was dying to hear live, and I was not disappointed. My ears were so appreciative to hear jams like:

• New York City’s Killing Me
• For the Summer
• Beg Steal or Borrow
• Like Rock & Roll and Radio
• Devil’s in the Jukebox
• Trouble

There is something about Ray’s voice, it’s as if it from a different time. The first time I heard one of his songs, I was convinced it was a gem from my parent’s hay-day, that I was somehow not exposed to. His unique voice combined with stellar guitar playing and deep, quality lyrics make the entire package. In a world where top 40-hits are dominated by auto-tuned, talentless garbage, it is a shame that an act such as this doesn’t garner more attention. However, it is still refreshing to know there are musicians making honest, emotional-filled music and are touring the country sharing their gift with all willing to listen.

This truly was the perfect mid-week date, which is pretty rare for us. I don’t like to deviate from my structured schedule of work, exercise and getting a solid night’s sleep too often, but I am SO glad I made an exception for this concert.

If you ever have the opportunity to catch these insanely talented musicians live, do not hesitate. You will not be disappointed.

And while giving credit where credit is due, Brandi Carlile was the opening act. Mind = blown. The hook? Brandi did a cover of one of my all-time favorites, Leonard Cohen’s ‘Hallelujah’. Does it get any better than that?

Are you looking forward to any concerts this summer?

About these ads