The Steepwater Band Live at The Venue on 2024-02-24

In the heart of Aurora, Illinois, a remarkable display of musicianship and camaraderie unfolded at The Venue on the night of February 24, 2024. The Steepwater Band, a name synonymous with gritty blues-rock and soul-stirring performances, delivered a concert that will be etched in the memories of those fortunate enough to have witnessed it. The event, which sold out minutes before the doors opened, was not just a testament to the band’s enduring appeal but also to the vibrant music scene of Aurora.

The concert was split into two sets, each a showcase of the band’s versatility and depth, punctuated by a double encore that left the audience clamoring for more. The atmosphere was electric, thanks in no small part to Charlie Mayton’s masterful light show, which added an extra layer of immersion to the experience.

The first set opened with “Please The Believer,” setting the tone with its robust energy and lyrical depth. Each song that followed seemed to peel back another layer of the band’s musical prowess, from the contemplative “Salvation In Time” to the Bob Dylan cover of “Positively 4th Street,” which was rendered with a reverence and freshness that breathed new life into the classic track. “Broken Spirit Blues” and “Revelation Sunday” were highlights, showcasing the band’s ability to fuse blues, rock, and a touch of psychedelic flair into a sound distinctly their own.

The second set commenced with “Turn Of The Wheel,” a song that seemed to capture the essence of the band’s journey and their connection with the audience. The inclusion of “High & Humble” and “Come On Down” highlighted the band’s knack for crafting songs that are both introspective and universally relatable. The appearance of local favorite Scott Tipping on songs like “Walk In My Shadow” and “Key To The Highway” was a crowd-pleaser, adding a special touch to an already unforgettable night.

It was the encores, however, that truly showcased the band’s appreciation for their fans. “Tell The Truth,” a Derek and the Dominos cover, and “Statesboro Blues” by The Allman Brothers Band, with Scott Tipping on guitar, were not just performances but celebrations of the genre’s rich history and the band’s influences.

While the band’s musical prowess was the centerpiece, the concert’s success was also due to the contributions of individuals like Charlie Mayton, whose lighting design created an atmosphere that was both intimate and grandiose. Zach Darce’s work as the Front of House sound engineer ensured that every note, from the tenderest vocal to the most powerful guitar solo, was delivered with clarity and warmth.

The Steepwater Band’s concert at The Venue was more than just a musical performance; it was a communal experience, a gathering of souls united by a love for music that speaks to the heart and stirs the spirit. With a setlist that spanned the breadth of their discography and beyond, the band proved once again that they are torchbearers of the blues-rock tradition, infusing it with their unique voice and vision. As the echoes of the final notes fade, the memory of that night in Aurora serves as a reminder of the power of live music to connect, inspire, and uplift.

Lineup

Jeff Massey – guitar, vocals
Eric Saylors – guitar, vocals
Joe Winters – drums
Joe Bishop – bass, vocals
Chris Grove – keyboards

*Scott Tipping – guitar

Zach Darce – FOH sound engineer