Good Ole’ Boys
By: Bethany Oiler
I had not heard of The Punch Brothers the week prior to seeing them. However, since bluegrass tends to be where my heart lies, I knew that I was in for a good time. What I did not know was that I was in for an all around epic experience. The night ended with a personalized, informal interview with front man Chris Thile (thee-lee) himself- (Which you will reap the benefits from further down.) But, the night started with pulling into an empty field of the Pisgah Brewing Company in Black Mountain, NC.
Upon accidentally arriving at the right place, (hidden behind a metal barn, and accessible by an unmarked gravel road) my good friend and photographer Alyce, her adventure-seeking sister, Dena and myself made our way out of our cars- camping chairs in hand- towards the open field. The
twinkle-light covered ticket tent welcomed us with local hospitality and wristbands. Inside the fenced-in “auditorium”, we were received by local vendors, a hot dog stand, ($3 for all the toppings you’d ever want) and about five loyal fans. We were early. Then, there was the stage. Completely open and
raised up by giant wooden beams. It was soon to be transformed into a dreamy platform; host to some glorious sounds set beneath a starry night.
Epic.
Since we were early, we were able to experience the Pisgah Brewing Company. If you are not familiar with the Pisgah Brewing Company, I highly recommend you do some research. It houses nothing but certified organic brew. I had the Valdez; a coffee infused stout. Incredible. Guests and locals alike could enjoy the indoor/outdoor bar complete with fireplace, live music, and naturally, a plethora of beer.
With the local opening band starting up, we made our way back to the stage. By now, the field was crowding up with a mix of local country folk and hipsters alike. I never did catch the talented trio’s name- a mix of smooth jazz, folk, and Middle Eastern infused sounds that came oozing from the stage. Quite the opener. It was the first time I have ever seen or heard an electric banjo- with just an electric guitar and bass to accompany. They were delightful.
I’m ready for The Punch Brothers. So is everyone else. All of us crowd in towards the stage as their shadowy figures fasten themselves to their instruments. We all waited for the first sounds to take us over.
It was completely dark by the time they started playing. The sky was clear and the harvest moon was out. The band looked clean cut and tidy in their suits and ties, carrying themselves in the manner of true gentlemen. Upon encountering their gratitude and kindness from the stage, we found that this appearance reigned true to their character. True gentlemen. The whole evening was laced with each members wit and charm. These proved perfect companions to the perfectly crafted art of sound coming from the instruments in the hands of gentlemen.
Clear. Riveting. Smooth. Captivating. Flawless. Romantic. Heartbreaking. Raw. True.
Honest story telling. Essentially, just a good ole time. I’m an instant fan. Chris Thile’s lyrics are as heavy as lead on the subject of broken hearts and as light as air on the subject of good times.
I find myself trying to sing along. To say that the PB members have mastered their instruments and their sound is quite frankly, an understatement. This is one of the best live shows I’ve experienced. I’m truly captivated. The show comes to an end (after a small riot provoking an encore of course). ‘Rye Whiskey’ is the hit of the night- a song with an instant guarantee to put you in a good mood. Then, the sadness kicks in. The feeling of wanting more after experiencing something that has captivated ones attention so intensely. So, Alyce and I decided we really couldn’t leave without an interview.
We stationed ourselves at the side of the stage. Waiting to see what could come of it. Soon enough, Mr. Thile himself was heading our way. He was incredibly approachable and enthusiastic about letting us take up his time for an “informal” interview. I kept it short and sweet but he kindly obliged to answer all of my questions:
This was the first show for the roughly 4-month long PB tour. Chris Thile mentioned several times how much he loved coming to this part of the Carolinas. This is Thile’s second project, formerly singing lead vocals and playing the mandolin for the band Nickel Creek. Over time (Thile and violinist Gabe Witcher have been friends since childhood) the bluegrass rooted band started to take shape.
The band members are as follows:
Chris Thile- mandolin, vocals
Noam Pikelny- banjo
Gabe Witcher- violin, vocals
Paul Kowert- bass, vocals
Chris Eldridge- guitar, vocals
I asked Thile how he got his inspiration for the songs he writes. “I like to try and grab my mandolin first thing when I wake up…when your mind is still in another place...” This clearly has served PB well, with the whimsical genius of words and melodies that really do seem to come from a dream-like state of mind at times. (Check out The Blind Leaving the Blind)
I further asked him what was next in store for the members of PB. They are currently working on their third album which Thile describes will stay true to what they are already doing. Essentially, he stated, “…the same but better”Which will be fine with their fans I’m sure. The PB’s next stop was Virginia at another outdoor venue.
Experiencing a Punch Brothers show is like sitting in the living room of a family full of musical prodigies. You just sit back, watch them have a good time doing what they do, while you real in a constant state of amazement. It was effortless. It was fun. It was real. There wasn’t just one moment that made this night unforgettable. It was a series of unexpected turns that came together to support an evening of great adventure, great beer, and great music. From the start, it was destined for greatness. The Punch Brothers won over my heart and kicked off a tour that I’m sure will leave everyone wanting more; and this definitely proved true for the people of Pisgah.
holla!
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