Blitzen Trapper- Turner Hall Ballroom, October 6, 2015

photo courtesy of Gigshotz by Stephen Bloch

Over the better part of the past decade, few acts have proven more consistent in both their studio albums and live shows than Blitzen Trapper.  If you want ruckus rock 'n roll guitars, fantastic multi-part harmonies, and a jangle-jam country rock sound (accented often times with harmonicas), then this proud Portland quintet is the band for you.

Once again, Blitzen Trapper showcased their indie experimental country-folk rock skills at Tuner Hall Ballroom, playing a solid set of music drawing heavily from their brand new eighth LP, All Across This Land.  In fact, with All Across This Land being released on October 2nd, this material was very new for the majority of the audience.  For this tour, "The Trap" ditched the "dressed up" look of suits and ties and opted for more rugged plaid attire which even showcased lead singer, Eric Earley wearing a flannel with cut off sleeves.   Perhaps this look matched the more "throw back" sound of All Across This Land, which at times sounds like what might happen if Bruce Springsteen grew up in Portland instead of New Jersey.  It's hard not to watch Earley belt out tracks like, "Nights Were Made For Love," or "Love Grow Cold," in the cut-off flannel and not think of "The Boss."

photo courtesy of Gigshotz by Stephen Bloch

However, the classic Trap sound was there through and through, as evidenced by the up-tempo title track, "All Across This Land," from their latest record.  In addition, the band played a good chunk of diverse tracks from their previous records including, "Thirsty Man" off of VII,  the narrative tale of "Black River Killer," off of Black River Killer and "Love the Way You Walk Away" from American Goldwing.  A show highlight was a stripped down version of "Furr," which appeared during the encore.

As always, the Trap provided a solid evening of music, tales and fun, and proved why their fans will continue to come out and support the band album after album and tour after tour.

Photo courtesy of Gigshotz by Stephen Bloch
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