Tedeschi Trucks simply superb
Band mixes craft, warmth
On a steamy night in Confederation Park, the Tedeschi Trucks Band gave the audience at the TD Ottawa Jazz Festival a sumptuous feast of musical styles, served by a Grammy-winning group that was full of supremely talented musicians.
At the heart of the beautiful mélange of soul, blues, funk, Southern rock and, yes, even a touch of cosmic jazz was the husband-andwife team of Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi, highly respected American singersongwriter-guitarists who put aside their individual careers a few years ago to join forces in one glorious supergroup. Without a doubt, the duo have the songs and stage presence to carry a show on their own, but happily it seems they don't believe in stripping things down. They travel with two drummers, three horn players, a bassist, keyboardist and a pair of backup singers, a lineup worthy of the main stage of any major music festival.
Trucks' chunky chords called attention to the stage and laid the framework for Tedeschi's robust voice. Each song was carefully constructed to allow the members' strengths to shine while also serving the greater good of the band as a whole. The ensemble repeatedly demonstrated their impeccable musical instincts, rising to the occasion when it was called for, but also displaying a healthy regard for a softer dynamic. The nearcapacity audience revelled in the musicianship from the comfort of their lawn chairs.
Although popular on the jamband circuit, this is not an outfit that practises mindless noodling. In fact, a big reason for the devotion of so many fans has to be their songcraft. Not only are they accomplished musicians, but the music comes together with songs that have intelligent lyrics, strong hooks and good structure. Perhaps the best feature is the striking voice of Tedeschi, who was able to maintain an atmosphere of warmth and intimacy as the boys in the band raged around her.
It was a superb concert, with a set list that included the spirited Made Up Mind, the soulfully tormented It's So Heavy and the funk-laced Love Has Something Else To Say. Other highlights included the lonely ache of Midnight in Harlem and a heavenly Bound for Glory.