Despite tumultuous and sporadic storms earlier in the day, music lovers dried off, bundled up and gathered to revel in Israel Nash’s folk-infused blues rock set under misty skies at the Norman Music Festival on April 29.
The audience at the Bud Light Depot Stage started out thin, but Nash’s raspy rocker growl quickly drew an enthusiastic crowd. Festival-goers bobbed their heads and bathed in the warmth of Nash’s yellow and orange stage lights.
“Come squish,” Nash said, waving the crowd toward the stage. “To be squished is to be loved, and there is a lot of love going on here.”
From their opening song, Nash and his back-up band filled Main Street with a soulful mix of easy listening and coarse blues rock riffs.
“It’s a unique experience to hear that alt-country, blues rock, jam music sound,” crowd member Austin Cookson said.
As the night went on, Nash displayed his song writing skills with lyrics such as “pour me out like sour wine.” He embodied a classic rock front man as he sang from behind a wispy mane of hair while strumming a pearly white rhythm guitar.
Nash’s rhythm guitar chorused harmoniously with the psychedelic drones of the steel guitar and the punchy plucks of the lead guitar. The band members' instrumentality lit the stage as the musicians worked together to share their blended blues and rock sound.
“None of the bands here can play their instruments like these guys can,” said Cason Hill, long-time Israel Nash fan.
As the set continued, Nash repeatedly thanked the crowd for braving the rain and wind in order to enjoy his music. He said a dedicated audience is what makes live music such an intimate experience.
Following an afternoon of showers and rain delays, the band went on to ironically introduce its breakout song “Rain Plans.” Nash said he appreciated the hard work that went into organizing the festival during the rain so he could have the opportunity to share music with the Norman audience.
Later, Hill joked he didn’t mind the rain because he came for the musicians.
“They captivate with all kinds of music,” Hill said. “They are the best band I’ve seen here.”
Born and raised in Missouri, Nash said coming to Oklahoma felt like coming home to the Midwest. Nash’s praise of Norman was met with cheers from the crowd.
The rocker and his band closed the show with a twangy, edgy two-minute guitar solo and a few words of advice.
“Rock long, loud and hard,” Nash said.
