Al Hurricane Spears Live at The Venue on 2024-01-06

On a snowy night in Aurora, Illinois, Al Spears & The Hurricane Project transformed The Venue into a haven of warmth and musical ecstasy. Despite the cold outside, the sold-out crowd was treated to a night where blues, soul, and rock converged in a spectacular display of artistry.

The show kicked off with ‘Phone Booth’, a Robert Cray cover, delivered with such intensity that it captivated the audience from the start. The band’s rendition of Bill Withers’ ‘Who Is He’ seamlessly blended soulful rhythms with bluesy undertones, showcasing their versatility early in the show.

A standout moment was the appearance of 13-year-old guitar prodigy Alex Olson, who joined the band for an ‘Unnamed Original’. Olson’s remarkable talent added a fresh and vibrant dimension to the performance, highlighting the band’s commitment to embracing and nurturing new talent.

Throughout the first set, the band navigated through a diverse playlist with ease. From the gritty authenticity of Son Seals’ ‘Funky Bitch’ and ‘The Woman I Love’ to the smooth and soulful ‘Let’s Straighten It Out’ by Latimore and Bob Seger’s classic ‘Turn The Page’, each song was a testament to the band’s musical prowess.

The second set deepened the groove with ‘Help Me’ by Sonny Boy Williamson II, a harmonica-laden track that allowed Tony Medina to showcase his exceptional skills. Chris Stapleton’s ‘Cold’ was another highlight, with Herman Hines’ powerful vocals perfectly capturing the song’s emotional depth.

The encore, Lou Rawls’ ‘I’d Rather Drink Muddy Water’, was a soulful conclusion to an unforgettable night. It left the audience in awe, yearning for more.

What truly set this concert apart was the band’s interaction with the crowd. Members like Al Spears on guitar, Melvin Holmes on guitar, Tony Medina on harmonica, and Jeff Choate on horns, ventured into the audience, performing amongst the people and breaking the barrier between the stage and spectators. This created an intimate and communal atmosphere, making the concert feel like a shared experience rather than just a performance.

In conclusion, Al Spears & The Hurricane Project didn’t just deliver a concert; they provided an immersive musical experience. Their ability to blend genres, coupled with their dynamic stage presence and crowd interaction, made this a night to remember. It was an evening where the chill of winter was forgotten, replaced by the warmth of outstanding music and community spirit.

Lineup

Herman Hines – vocals
Tony Medina – harmonica
Melvin Holmes – guitar
Jeff Ruffin – drums
Jeff Choate – keys, horns
Al “Hurricane” Spears – guitar
Mike Brown – bass