CONCERT REVIEW
by Jared Curtis
Old Crow Medicine Show
Hoyt Sherman Place, Nov. 6
The historic Hoyt Sherman Place was filled with an eclectic crowd that just happened to experience one of the best shows this year with Old Crow Medicine Show (OCMS). The Nashville, Tenn., five piece played two sets filled with their mixture of bluegrass, Americana, folk, alt-county and old timey numbers that had the crowd stomping their feet and clapping their hands. “An Evening with Old Crow Medicine Show” should be the unofficial title of their tour, because OCMS doesn’t need an opener. They come onstage with instruments blazing and give the audience the experience they paid for. Although every member (except bassist Morgan Jahnig) took his turn on the microphone, it was Ketch Secor who was the focal point. His charisma added to his fiery fiddle and harmonica skills. The man can play, and he sawed the fiddle in a way that would provoke an approving nod from Charlie Daniels. Willie Watson, guitarist/vocals, also kept his part of the show rocking. The two front men had great banter and played off each other like a well-rehearsed storytelling duo. The vibe was electric, and even though I did see some older fans getting a nap in between the two sets, there were moments when I thought the floor was going to cave in from the crowd’s stomping feet. Returning for an encore, the band kept the party going, and Secor showed the audience their appreciation by stating, “This might be the first time we’ve played Des Moines, but it won’t be the last.” If they stay true to their word, I’ll be the first in line. CV — Jared Curtis
 Old Crow Medicine Show at Hoyt Sherman Place Photo by Jared Curtis |
 Papa Roach at Val Air Ballroom Photo by Shannon Smith |
Photo by Shannon Smith |
by Shannon Smith |
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