Peach Jam Live at The Venue on 2024-01-20

On a night where the icy breath of winter was biting at the heels of every music lover in Aurora, Illinois, Peach Jam transformed The Venue into a haven of warmth, both in atmosphere and in sound. The sold-out show on January 20th, 2024, was not just a concert; it was a journey through the depths of Southern rock, blues, and a touch of improvisational genius, led by a band that seemed to transcend the limits of time and genre.

As the night commenced with “Southbound,” Sean Briskey took the lead, setting the tone with his electric guitar and vocals that resonated with a raw, unfiltered passion. The band’s cohesion was immediately apparent, a seamless unit of sound and soul.

“Ain’t Wastin’ Time No More” and “Don’t Keep Me Wonderin’,” with Kevin Campbell on the bass guitar and vocals, shifted gears into a more rhythmic, blues-infused territory. Campbell’s voice had a gritty, heartfelt quality that made every lyric feel deeply personal.

Bill Grady, on electric guitar and vocals, brought a different kind of intensity to “Done Somebody Wrong” and “Have You Ever Loved a Woman.” His guitar work was nothing short of mesmerizing, blending skill and emotion in a way that captivated the audience.

“In Memory of Elizabeth Reed” was a standout instrumental performance, showcasing the band’s ability to weave complex melodies and rhythms into a tapestry of sound that was both intricate and accessible.

The first set’s closer, “Ramblin’ Man,” with Briskey back on lead, was a high-energy number that had the crowd singing along, the warmth in the venue becoming almost tangible.

The second set opened with “One Way Out” and “Soulshine,” featuring Grady’s soulful vocals. These songs highlighted the band’s bluesy edge, with each member contributing to a sound that was rich and full-bodied.

The medley of “Midnight Rider > I Know You Rider > Midnight Rider (Reprise)” was a masterful display of Peach Jam’s ability to take classic tracks and make them their own. All members singing in unison created a sense of unity among the crowd, a shared experience that transcended mere performance.

“Stormy Monday” and “Why Does Love Got to Be So Sad?” saw Grady and Campbell share the spotlight, their voices intertwining in a dance of melody and harmony.

“Dreams” and “Whipping Post,” with Campbell on lead, were a showcase of emotional depth and musical prowess. The former floated through the venue like a haunting lullaby, while the latter erupted in a crescendo of sound and fury.

The night concluded with “Little Martha,” a poignant solo by Grady, followed by “Jessica,” a joyous, upbeat track that left the audience on a high.

The musicianship of Rich Fobes on keys and Hammond organ, and the dual-drummer dynamism of Michael Schroeder and Jon Reed, provided the backbone for the night’s eclectic mix of tunes. Their synergy was not just evident; it was the lifeblood of the performance.

Peach Jam at The Venue was more than a concert; it was a celebration of music’s power to unite, to stir the soul, and to warm even the coldest of nights. As the crowd spilled out into the chilly Aurora air, there was a shared feeling that something special had occurred — a night where, for a few hours, music made the world a little brighter, a little warmer.

Lineup

Bill Grady – electric guitar, vocals
Sean Briskey – electric guitar, vocals
Kevin Campbell – bass guitar, vocals
Rich Fobes – keys, Hammond organ
Michael Schroeder – drums
Jon Reed – drums