Words by Dan Rozman, Photos by Mark Raker
The last Saturday night of August brought something special to Wolf Trap. Whiskey Myers and Tedeschi Trucks Band (TTB) wrapped up their two-night stand with a show that had everything: perfect weather, a packed house, and music that reminded everyone why they go to live concerts.
Wolf Trap’s Filene Center looked picture-perfect as fans streamed in for the sold-out show. The outdoor venue, tucked into the Virginia woods just outside DC, has hosted legendary acts for decades. But Saturday felt different. Maybe it was the weather – warm but not too hot, with just enough breeze. Or maybe it was the crowd, packed with TTB’s devoted fans who are part of the “Jamily” and had come from all over the region.
Whiskey Myers hit the stage first and came out swinging. These Mississippi rockers don’t mess around. They opened with “Gasoline” and kept the pedal down through songs like “Bury My Bones” and “Time Bomb.” Singer Cody Cannon’s raspy vocals cut through the evening air while the twin guitars created walls of Southern-fried sound.
The band mixed their originals with covers that showed their range. “Broken Window Serenade” had folks singing along, and when they got to “Stone,” half the crowd was on their feet. They closed with a cover of “Going Down” that left everyone ready for more.
After a quick changeover, the Tedeschi Trucks Band took the stage. The 12-piece group spread across the stage, and when they started playing, it was magical. Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi might be the leaders, but this is a true ensemble where everyone matters.
They kicked off with “Don’t Let Me Slide,” Derek’s guitar already singing those liquid notes that have made him famous. Then came “Do I Look Worried,” which turned into an early highlight when Derek got so into it that he snapped a string.
The new song “I Got You” showed that the band isn’t just playing their hits. Mike Mattison stepped up for vocals on “Life Is Crazy” before the band rolled into “Bound for Glory” and “I Am The Moon,” the title track from their recent album.
The way they moved from “Vienna” into “Sweet Virginia” just worked. You could see Derek listening to Susan sing, then his slide started creeping in, and before you knew it, they were somewhere completely different. The horns kicked in hard on “Sweet Virginia,” and the vocals were soulful. It’s moments like this that make you remember why this band is special.
“Anyhow” energized the entire venue before Isaac Eady’s drumming and Kebbi Williams’ saxophone took center stage in an extended jam that naturally evolved into “Shame.” These instrumental showcases highlight the band’s collaborative approach, where every member gets their moment to lead the musical narrative.
“Midnight in Harlem” slowed things down with its gorgeous melody, then “Made Up Mind” brought the energy back up. For the finale, Susan put down her guitar and grabbed the mic for “With a Little Help From My Friends.” But this wasn’t the Beatles version; it was pure Joe Cocker, all grit and soul. Susan’s voice soared over the band, and by the end, everyone was singing along.
Walking out of Wolf Trap that night, people were still buzzing. Two very different bands had shown what American music can be when it’s done right. Whiskey Myers brought the rock and attitude. TTB brought the soul and sophistication. Together, they created a night that reminded everyone why live music beats everything else.
Some shows you remember for one great song. This one you remember for the whole experience.
TTB Setlist for Saturday night from setlist.fm:
Don’t Let Me Slide
Do I Look Worried
I Got You
Life Is Crazy (Mike Mattison cover)
Bound for Glory
I Am the Moon
Vienna (Billy Joel cover)
Sweet Virginia (The Rolling Stones cover)
Anyhow
Shame
Midnight in Harlem
Made Up Mind
With a Little Help From My Friends (The Beatles cover)
Whiskey Myers setlist from setlist.fm:
Gasoline
Frogman
Bury My Bones
Time Bomb
Die Rockin
Broken Window Serenade
Tailspin
Feet’s
The Wolf
Trailer We Call Home
Glitter Ain’t Gold
Midnight Woman
John Wayne
Bitch
Stone
Going Down(The Alabama State Troupers cover)
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