Show Report

Show Report: The Husdon, Hamilton
April 24, 1999



Ron Hawkins and the Rusty Nails made their much-awaited return to Steeltown, appearing again at the Hudson. Like last time, there was no opening act, the guys just did a short (30 min.) set, took a break, then did another set. I like this setup, cuz I'm primarily there to see the Nails (although the band who opened for them at their CD release party at the Horseshoe was a pleasant surprise - damned if I can remember their name, though).

The new baritone sax player was with the band again, although still no word on whether he's officially in the band or not. Ron didn't introduce the band again, so I still don't even have a name. Good news is that after playing some dates with the Nails, he sounded great. Even his solos sounded good.

My hilights of the show:
- the 'violin' songs I haven't heard since Rob Fenton's departure were all back in the set! They played Waitin' on my New Heart, and replaced the violin part with a harmonica part by Lawrence. I thought the harmonica would sound good in the violin parts, and it did. They also played Partners In Crime, but just with the violin part removed, and no violin solo on the end. It sounded ok, but I hope Lawrence is learning to play it, cuz it's missing a little something with just guitar.
- two new songs in the set. Used, and a song I believe is called Roha (it rhymed with Aloha)
- in addition to the new song, the band played a cover song (the only cover, excluding Venice, of course, that I've ever heard the Nails play) and Lawrence sang it. Good to see him get a little more of an expanded role in the band! Oh yeah, the song was "Another Nail in my Heart", that 80's song, and the guys actually pulled it off!

In addition, I must say that this was the first Rusty Nails show I've been to with so many older (40's and up)people in attendance. Most left partway through the set (if it's too old, baby you're too loud!), but it was still interesting.

I've got clarification on more unreleased song lyrics too. So swing by the unreleased songs page to check them out.

Overall, just an amazing show. I guess the guys were rested, not playing too many shows and all lately, and it showed. The sound was noticeably better than their last visit to The Hudson, and I dunno if I'm just noticing now, but it seems Ron's guitar playing has gotten better too. Now hopefully I won't have to go another couple months before seeing them play again!




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