Concerts at the Union Terrace: Justin Townes Earle, July 3, 2010

One of my favorites and standing tall amidst the new crop of folk/country/Americana artists, Justin Townes Earle was on a whirlwind trip through town to play a short but sweet set at the Union Terrace this past Saturday. The large crowds that had gathered at the lakefront to view the July 4th fireworks display had diminished to a degree, but there were plenty of fans and curious hanger-on’s (he is the son of Steve Earle, literally Nashville royalty!) to see and hear the not yet turned 30 junior Earle perform. And perform he does! With an endearing stage presence, sharp wit and fashionable attire, Justin Townes Earle’s songbook covers old folk standards (‘John Henry’) and newer material (‘Mama’s Eyes’ from last year’s Midnight At The Movies) with equal measures of grace and zest. A magical voice coupled with a fine finger picking style of guitar play, JTE puts the heart and soul back in folk and country music. We’ll be seeing more of him soon as Harlem River Blues, Justin Townes Earle’s much-anticipated new record (supposedly with a more bluesy, grimier sound than the previous production), hits stores in September this year. We’ll keep you posted!