Dwight Yoakam – 3 Pears
With the show sold out for months, Dwight Yoakam and his band honky tonked their way into Casino New Brunswick tonight for a night of music that spanned almost 30 years and to promote his new album “3 Pears”. A house that, complete with the adding of extra ‘general admission’ seating, was packed to the hilt was ready for a show. The show started almost right on time, with the band taking the stage right around 8pm to a loud ovation from the fans in attendance.
Since emerging years ago in Los Angeles Yoakam has established himself as one of country music’s foremost straight-faced singers under a rarely removed cowboy hat. There is no flash and bang when it comes to Yoakam or his shows, and this night was no different, with him it’s about the songs and the music. I always find myself somewhat disappointed though when a musician doesn’t interact with the crowd somewhat, telling stories or comical anecdotes which you know have to be plentiful over a long standing career such as Yoakam’s. Yoakam for the most part just plays with little conversation, and play he does, for over two solid hours.
The night was a showcase of the newer material, which Yoakam thanked the crowd for graciously listening too even though most had never heard it before. With songs produced by the likes of ‘Beck’ (“A Heart Like Mine” / “Missing Heart”) that are two of the strongest on the album, and collaborations with the likes of Ashley Monroe (of Miranda Lambert’s Pistol Annies) and Kid Rock. 3 Pears proves to be a strong album from one of country’s biggest names, who not only is well know for his music but also his very accomplished acting chops as well after appearing in numerous roles in movies and television.
Dwight Yoakam – Casino NB – 09/01/13
Interspersed with his more well known hits from the past the music of the new album sent the crowd through a musical journey of fun, heartache and introspection which brought us through a little over two hours worth of music leading to his more popular songs that were held on to for the last part of the show. As he got to the more familiar of his songs the crowd rose to their feet, some even dancing off to the side of the stage, eventually making their way to the front of the stage to cheer on the performers.
Speaking of the performers, the band is a solid backing to Yoakam’s subtle and strong guitar playing and vocals. They play with precision and a loose feel of years of experience led by their troubadour frontman that will leave you appreciative of the skill displayed on the stage.
Dwight Yoakam – Casino NB – 09/01/13
Just after passing the two hour mark the band left the stage ending the night, to be called back for a three song encore that of course finished the night with “Suspicious Minds” from way back in 1992 and the Honeymoon in Vegas soundtrack, a cover, of the classic Elvis Presley hit written by Mark James in 1968. The crowd sang, danced, and cheered along with Dwight and his band to end the night.
Thanks to PPRL, Casino NB, and Dwight Yoakam for another great night at the Center!