The Reverb Brothers
On the Move
Daniel J. Curran
OK, you are out of sorts and need to get a groove on. How? What’s the solution? Here’s an idea, look up The Reverb Brothers and fast. They will restore your groove. Once their groove is under your skin, and it will be, you’re not going anywhere for a while. Let me go into detail here. This is a band of six older cats who have been around the musical block a few times and whose roots rock groove is on from start to finish. It doesn’t matter agewise with this band; everybody in the audience moves often.
“I would hope the audience comes away with a smile on their face and an interest in exploring the music styles we have been shaped by,” said Claes Almroth, bandleader.
On Thursday evening, August 4th, at McMenamins White Eagle Saloon and Rock and Roll Hotel, I had the pleasure of seeing The Reverb Brothers. Considering the band is in their 13th year together, the setlist was rich with blues, rock, and some country with some jazzy riffs thrown in. I intended to sit through one set but stayed for three sets of covers and original music. I couldn’t leave with the band showing their versatility by playing the music of Howlin’ Wolf, Taj Mahal, and Bob Dylan, to name a few of the more popular artists they cover, in addition to their excellent music.
“The Reverb Brothers band has great energy. Their music is diverse and danceable. Being an older band, The Reverb Brothers bring experience to the stage,” said Noreen, an avid fan who couldn’t stay off the dance floor.
Everyone is on the move throughout the show. There is much to like with The Reverb Brothers. The dance floor filled pretty quickly and stayed that way throughout the night. It was clear the band was having fun with the audience as well.
I had the pleasure to see the show a second time on Saturday, August 13th, at the Music Millenium Annual Celebration in a beautiful sunshine-enveloped outdoor venue behind the record store on NE Burnside and 31st street. Again, they brought their groove and enveloped the audience with it, myself included.
The Reverb Brothers consist of:
Claes Almroth, born in Sweden and raised in the Bay area, is on vocals, keyboards, blues harp, songwriting, bandleader, and founding member of The Reverb Brothers. His musical influences are impressive since much of his love of music emanated from Bill Graham at the Fillmore West and later Winterlands, both productive musical grounds. His musical landscape for musical influences goes deep and far and varied. It’s impressive; take my word for it.
Doug Marx, a lifelong Oregonian, is on vocals, acoustic guitar, and songwriting. His musical life surfaced after devoting years to writing poetry, journalism, teaching, and mentoring. In addition, to his skills as an excellent lead singer and guitar player, he is a painter too. Impressive.
Michael Kearsey, from Massachusetts, is on vocals, bass, and songwriting Michael has been instrumental in the Portland music scene since the mid-’70s, having been a part of prominent Portland bands. Michael has also lent his talent as a promoter and a producer.
Allan Lemley, a lifelong Oregonian, is on vocals and electric guitar. His influences range from early 60;s rock and roll and early folk-rock coupled with the British invasion.
Dave, “Duffy” Cornet, hails from Kansas City, MO, on Vocals, Coronet, Trumpet, and Flugelhorn. Dave has also appeared on Prairie Home Companion with the Memphis Horns. Again, impressive.
Jon Beyer is on drums. An early starter (grade school) in finding his love for the big beat. He honed his craft in many bands and genres (Rock, Blues, Zydeco, Celtic, and on and on). He brings energy to the band. With J. Michael Kearsey, they form a rhythm section that puts your missing groove back on!
“I try to bring energy to the music by keeping good time/feel and using appropriate dynamics to Sheppard the songs,” said Beyer.
Until the pandemic, The Reverb Brothers were regulars at the White Eagle. Until this show, the band had only played at the White Eagle once in the last two years. Hopefully, this is a new beginning at the White Eagle and beyond for this local band that promises a nice night out listening/dancing to well-played music.
Check out their website at https://www.thereverbbrothers.com if you want to be treated to an excellent live album recording at the White Eagle; their Facebook page, Bandcamp, and YouTube.
Please do yourself a favor; check them out.
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