Tag Archives: Hugh Bob and the Hustle

TO THOSE OF YOU THAT CONTINUE TO DO IT WELL, I THANK YOU

I must be honest, I’ve been a bit bored with the music scene lately. It seems that “indie” has become a catch-all term for this safe, pseudo-sensitive sound that many bands gravitate to; being complacent and “appealing to the masses” instead of taking risks and pushing the envelope. Fortunately with some local bands this is not the case, and my ears cannot thank you enough.

I saw Hugh Bob & the Hustle at the Miller Stables the other weekend, and they gave a great performance despite the less than savory venue. These guys decided to experiment with their own style of country music, and their risk totally paid off. This is the kind of country that I can get into, and I won’t miss any future shows if I can help it.

When I’m talking to someone about Fresh Cut Collective, I can never give a description worthy of their unique style, and this is precisely why they continue to stand out. All of the members have a multitude of musical talents and have at least one other project in the works, and that collective passion comes out when they play together. Always ready to perform a new song or experiment with a new style, FCC recently showcased some new material last week at River Rhythms, and they have nearly an album’s worth of new songs to perform when they open for the Roots at Summerfest this year. In the music industry, your fans are the boss, and it’s not enough to keep regurgitating the same sound or the same set list. They understand this and we appreciate it.

Newcomers Kane Place Record Club continue to be one of the most charismatic bands I know, and for all the times I’ve seen them, I have yet to find someone who hasn’t enjoyed their live shows. Their lyrics are fun and catchy, they have a unique style and even with a new drummer they continue to be on top of their game. Fans and musicians alike need to pay attention, I have a feeling these guys are just getting started.

One band that’s quite familiar with the Milwaukee music scene is The Delta Routine. They’ve played in local bars since before front man Nick Amadeus was old enough to drink, and the fact that the band is finishing another album in addition to Nick’s own solo work is proof that they know how to stay current in this city. They brought in Kevin Topel for lead guitar when recording their album “More About You”, and now with Vic Buell and Al Kraemer (guitar and keys, respectively), their upcoming album will have a fuller pop/rock feel while maintaining the essence of The Delta Routine sound.

Are these the only good bands in Milwaukee? Of course not. These are a few bands have lured me in, and they know how to give me what I want and keep me wanting more. And I’m always looking for more, so show me what else you’ve got, Milwaukee, I know you have it in you.

Nikki Lane and Hugh Bob & the Hustle at the Hotel Foster

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I’m the first to admit that my knowledge of country music is limited to the likes of Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline and some classic Southern rock; however, in my constant search for good music I’m always willing to explore new avenues. When I heard that Nikki Lane and Hugh Bob & the Hustle were playing at the Hotel Foster (and on Hugh’s birthday, none the less), I knew it would be a night of great music.

The night kicked off with Nikki Lane, who hails from Nashville. I always enjoy seeing female musicians who can hold their own, and they certainly did not disappoint. Nikki has an amazing voice, and the band’s vocals and harmonies create a feeling reminiscent of a relaxing summer afternoon. Her voice can be sweet and down-home as well as haunting and melodic, and their songs flow easily from one to the next. They’re headed out on tour with Hugh Bob & the Hustle now, and it will be a good one because the two bands are such an appropriate pairing.

Members from both bands played together after Nikki Lane’s set, blending nicely and providing a good transition to Hugh Bob & the Hustle’s set. Though Hugh Bob & the Hustle is made up primarily of the members of the Wildbirds, the first thing you will notice is that they are not “the Wildbirds just playing country music.” With the addition of Matt Keon on pedal steel and Allen Cote on the lap steel, this is not some bland, pseudo pop-country sound. They have a true Southern feel with solid classic rock roots that I can really appreciate. As lead vocalist, Hugh has a quiet confidence when he performs that engages the audience in an easy, friendly way. His lyrics and vocals have an honesty about them that truly compliment the sound that they bring to the stage. With songs like “Red, White & Blue Jeans” and “This Bar’s a Prison” (my personal favorite), it wasn’t long before toes started tapping and bodies started swaying, and with the size of the crowd that came out, there wasn’t much room for much more dancing. Nikki Lane joined the band for a few songs, and the entire show was a performance worthy of Hugh’s birthday celebration.

I can’t talk about this night without mentioning the great place that hosted it. If you have not yet been to the Hotel Foster, you’re missing out. The décor is beautiful, the menu boasts a diverse selection of hand crafted specialty drinks and craft beers, and the attentive staff ensure you’re taken care of regardless of how crowded it is. To be able to consistently provide that kind of atmosphere, regardless of the day of the week is something to be admired and enjoyed. And I’m sure this won’t be the only opportunity to see Hugh Bob & the Hustle at the Hotel Foster, so stay tuned.

HUGH BOB AND THE HUSTLE/ WILDBIRDS

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Tag Archives: Hugh Bob and the Hustle

TO THOSE OF YOU THAT CONTINUE TO DO IT WELL, I THANK YOU

Nikki Lane and Hugh Bob & the Hustle at the Hotel Foster

HUGH BOB AND THE HUSTLE/ WILDBIRDS