A night of Drughorse Collective is inevitably unpredictable. Between the 25-some members that comprise the collective, musicians frequently jump in and out of each band.
On Saturday night, the same unpredictability proved true for Max Indian and Ryan Gustafson, who performed with Bright Young Things at The Pour House in Raleigh. As usual, there was evidence copious evidence of shared band members (and one coveted vintage Batman shirt) — but more importantly there was a shared passion for playing infectious live music in its purest form.
To kick things off, Raleigh’s Bright Young Things eased into a seven song set that highlighted their '70s, classic pop influenced sound. Whether it was the introductory sleigh bell jingle on “The Last Time I Saw You” or guitarist Cameron Lee strutting his stuff, the band’s set flowed effortlessly from one song to the next and included new material as well as favorites from the band's EP (that you can snag free here).
Next, Ryan Gustafson and his gang of Drughorse members launched into a diverse 45 minute set, a sweet mixture of country, rock and folk. The crowd, fully invested in Gustafson’s soulful croon, sang loudly and passionately with the heartfelt ballads.
Finally, Carter Gaj (having already mounted the stage to play with Gustafson) reemerged as Max Indian. With upbeat ditties and catchy lyrics that got the audience dancing throughout the set, the band’s charming tunes shone brightly from behind the dark of Gaj’s sunglasses.
Throughout the show, the existing synergy of the bands was easy to spot. From the jovial conversation with the techs in the middle of the sets to the camaraderie the bands emanated on and off stage, there was a familial feel to the entire evening. Pop-rocking in the finest sense, it was a night as refreshing as a summertime breeze, with sunglasses, witty banter, and authenticity to boot.
Photos by Linnie Greene
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