Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band is one comprised of several genres infused together, including blues and mountain bluegrass with subtle yet hard undertones that perfectly complement their rockabilly style. This style of genre-bending allows the band to ease into and out of neverending jams. I once described them as rockabilly hardgrass because bluegrass is too soft of a description, even at its hardest.
At one point in the night, five-gallon buckets were brought out and used as drums. Band members switched instruments. The actual washboard is one of the most eclectic and beautiful sounds. Their music is astounding, it truly encompasses their talent. The chemistry on stage is irreplaceable, the nonverbal communication between band mates was so subtle I had to actually look for their cues to one another. They genuinely just get up there and feel the music.
The Reverend himself gave honor to Knuckleheads and how many bands have been here before: “They don’t just let anyone on this stage; there have been huge names come through here, and I’m honored to be part of it.”
Throughout the show, Reverend Peyton spoke with the audience, making it a personable experience, but I’ve seen a thousand musicians talk to a crowd; I have yet to see anyone’s eyes swell with as much joy as Reverend Peyton’s. If you look closely at the last photo, there’s an actual twinkle. Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band love what they do, and they make the experience picture-perfect.
