Tedeschi Trucks Band

BennyD, contributor
 

Sometimes, you can just feel a great night coming. That was the vibe at the Bank of NH Pavilion this Labor Day. The evening started in the parking lot, with the classic pre-show ritual of good food and music shared among a mellow, happy crowd. But it was a small, unexpected moment that truly set the tone. As we were walking in, one of the parking lot attendants smiled and said, "Have a great show." It was such a simple, genuine gesture, but it perfectly captured the spirit of the evening—a shared sense of joy and community.

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Kicking things off was Whiskey Myers, a band I wasn't familiar with before tonight. Consider me a new fan. They delivered a powerful set of gritty, soulful Southern rock that had heads nodding and feet stomping all across the venue. They were the perfect appetizer for the main course, warming up the crowd with an energy that was both potent and immensely enjoyable. For a first impression, they absolutely nailed it.

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Then, as twilight settled over Lake Winnipesaukee, the twelve members of the Tedeschi Trucks Band took the stage and launched into what can only be described as a masterclass in modern blues and rock. From Susan Tedeschi’s powerhouse vocals to Derek Trucks' otherworldly slide guitar, the two leaders are a perfectly matched musical storm. Early highlights like their funky original, "Ain't That Something," and a fiery cover of Derek and The Dominos' "Why Does Love Got to Be So Sad?" perfectly showcased this dynamic.

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Backed by a flawless ensemble, the band took us on a journey. A collective hush fell over the pavilion for their breathtaking performance of "Midnight in Harlem," a song that built from a soulful simmer to a soaring, emotional peak. But perhaps the most explosive moment came when they invited Whiskey Myers back on stage for a massive, all-hands-on-deck jam on the Little Feat classic "Spanish Moon." The crowded stage and shared energy were infectious, creating a true concert moment that won't soon be forgotten.

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From the first kind word in the parking lot to the final, roaring encore, the night was a perfect cap on the holiday weekend. It was a beautiful reminder of how live music, good people, and a great atmosphere can create something truly special.