Last night we had the chance to catch one of Gary Bennett's live shows in downtown Nashville's Full Moon Saloon, and it was really a treat. Since the release of his solo album Human Condition back in 2006, Bennett has not had a regular gig, yet now he has finally decided to give live performing a try once again. Along with his nephew Jason Capps, also a songwriter, and using his mother's maiden name, he is performing as The McNeills. And it certainly is a sort of family gathering, with Bennett and Capps doing their own songs, as well as tackling great country classics such as Lefty Frizzell's "The Long Black Veil," Webb Pierce and Mel Tillis's "I Ain't Never," and Buck Owens's "Love's Gonna Live Here."Although their styles are markedly different, they complement each other very well. Bennett is a stage veteran, and his Bakersfield-influenced honky tonk sound that we have heard on countless BR549 recordings is fresher than ever. His voice is now a little more mature, somewhat hoarser at times, yet always drenched with emotion. The younger Capps favors a more modern country sound, and although he is adept at songwriting, he still needs to work a little on his live performing skills. Together they put on a very enjoyable show that is well worth attending. The McNeills play every Wednesday night from 8:00 to 10:00 at the Full Moon Saloon, on Lower Broadway, a small honky tonk that is rather noisy and smoky at times. But then, what would honky tonk music be without a little noise and a little smoke?
Cowboy Anton & Cowgirl Erin.
