It Was a Great Time, Time, Time, Time, Time.

Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats took the stage last night at an absolutely packed Express Live in Columbus, OH. I knew the band had grown exponentially in popularity, but I had no idea they were as big as they are. As I pulled up to park at the venue a line of easily 1,000 people wrapped around the corner and down the block. Doors were just about to open, with a line this size I knew there would be unparalleled energy from the crowd.

All of their fame and love is absolutely deserved. The road to fame was not an easy one for Nathaniel Rateliff. He’s been writing and making music for over a decade, but not until recently has he become the musical icon we needed him to be. This was my fourth time seeing him. The first time was back in 2014 or 2015, he opened up for Dr. Dog who opened up for the Lumineers who had just come to the scene after their breakout hit “Ho Hey”. He played to a crowd of maybe 100-200 people that night. Now he’s playing to crowds of 5,000+.  Nothing makes me happier than seeing a musician I love getting the recognition that is completely warranted.

I wandered around Express Live, I guess with my camera and my backpack I look extremely official, which I am not. Around a dozen or so people asked me when the opening act, Lydia Loveless, was going on. I told them around 8pm-8:30, even though I really wasn’t sure. People seemed to be really excited for an opener, which got me pretty excited. I never heard of them before this show, but I can truly say I am now a big fan of Lydia Loveless.

Soulful and Emotionally Packed Alternative Rock

Lydia Loveless is a local band based right out of Columbus, OH. They have been a local favorite for years and rightfully so. Her lyrics are that of a master storyteller. A voice that soothes the pain but that comes with the hit of a strong shot of whiskey. The stage presence of the entire band is limitless. Usually, I find myself focusing on the lead singer, casually moving my eyes toward the bassist or guitarist, but not with this band. My eyes shuffled across the stage constantly being met with energy and passion. This band loves what they do and you can tell. They’re like Elliot Smith meets Metallica with some Elle King. I can’t wait to check out their full discography and see what I’ve been missing.

Nathaniel Rateliff is Here to Make You Have a Good Time

Once Lydia Loveless left the stage the crowd was reeling with anticipation for Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats to take the stage. The Night Sweats took the stage first, helping give frontman Nathaniel Rateliff a true showman’s entrance. The 39-year-old with the help of his band brought soul-drenched, 60’s esque, Memphis powered energy that didn’t let go for their entire set. They played a good portion of their new album, “Tearing at the Seams” and all of their hits off the breakthrough self-titled album. I couldn’t have asked for more from a live show. I can’t wait until they come back to Columbus.

Tons of upcoming shows are already sold out, get your tickets while you still can. Check out upcoming tour dates and full gallery below.

OCT 5, 2018