Roger's Return

Sweaty, sweaty, sweaty. That’s the most accurate description of the Roger Clyne & the Peacemakers show I can give. RCPM made their (nearly) annual trip to the historic Southgate House a few weeks ago and we were lucky enough to again sing and sweat with them. We caught yet another late weeknight show (thanks again SGH for accommodating my schedule) on a lightly rainy evening.

The show was opened by John Henry & the Engine from St. Louis (not a popular place to be from if you are in Cincinnati at the moment). With typical band set-up including two guitars and a keyboardist, they immediately offered up an instrumental sound that made them an obvious choice to tour with RCPM. The problem started however when lead singer “John Henry” opened his mouth. This “poor man’s Heath Ledger” who talked with a smooth and normal voice did not sing smoothly or normal. He sounded like he was trying to reach a depth that his vocal chords simply did not posses. Such a fake, strained and overly loud attempt at entertaining was one of the most horrific things I’ve ever heard. While the rest of the band was fairly solid in sound and talent, Henry brought the whole thing down… including a piece to close their set that included some acapella harmonies that were otherwise warm and soothing. Replace the lead man and they might really have something. Otherwise, I recommend staying out of earshot if at all possible.

After a short intermission RCPM took the stage as scheduled at the top of the hour – very un-Phosphorescent like. Not to cheat the depth and length (pft!) of their set, but it was a typical RCPM show. You know what to expect and they deliver on it EVERY TIME. They come at you with an energy and passion that could match any band anywhere. Early in the set we got a taste of “Americano”. Just part of what would be a full night of sing at the top of your lungs fun. For the most part the set contained everything you would expect… “Switchblade”, “Beautiful Disaster”, “I Speak Your Language”… however, it did seem they played more Refreshments tracks including “Mexico”, “Banditos” and a personal fave of mine “Mekong”.

Roger’s consistent ability to give his fans what they want including his personal attention and interaction is refreshing. He connects with his fans more than any artist I’ve ever seen – mostly by drinking shots of tequila that they purchase for him during the show. He is a true front man… and as Amy labeled him, a “sexpot” (I had to ask for a definition). I just hope he continues to go out on the road as consistently as I’ve known him to. Always a treat to see him leave it all out there and watch my favorite stylistic drummer PF Naffah do his work as well.