The Holmes Brothers
CSPS Hall/Legion Arts — Friday, Aug. 15 at 8 p.m.
Authentic American roots music heads to CSPS Hall in Cedar Rapids this Friday by way of The Holmes Brothers. This award-winning three-piece band, which includes guitarist/pianist Wendell Holmes, bassist Sherman Holmes and drummer Popsy Dixon, delivers a potent mix of soul, funk, R&B, country and old time rock and roll, all well-seasoned with real-deal blues and gospel.
The three musicians share in the group’s tight harmony vocals. Wendell and Sherman co-write the band’s catchy and soulful original songs while still leaving room on the set list for standards like “Amazing Grace.” The skill of these songwriters and performers is especially evident in their appearance on NPR’s Tiny Desk concert series:
Roots music this deep and soulful hasn’t escaped the attention of discerning fans or fellow musicians and songwriters. The Holmes Brothers have performed or recorded with the likes of Bob Dylan, Van Morrison, Lou Reed, Bruce Springsteen, Al Green and Levon Helm, just to name a few — a testament to the Holmes Brother’s wide sphere of influence.
“Stayed At the Party” is one of the stand-outs from the group’s latest album, Brotherhood, and can be heard in the following clip from WNYC’s Soundcheck. The song offers not only a catchy chorus and upbeat rhythms that will carry you toward the dance floor, but a lyric with a message that could keep you out of trouble: “Nothing wrong with a party sometimes. But don’t let the party take over your mind.”
The Holmes Brothers revive the deep roots of American music at the CSPS Hall this Friday night at 8 p.m. Don’t miss them!
