I didn’t know much about Dawes before I went to see them at La Zona Rosa Wednesday. I’d read about them and listened to a few tracks on Spotify, enough to know that the California quartet was a band I should like. Still, I was hesitant after my experience with Mumford & Sons.
This time advance notices were correct. What it usually comes down to is songs and the passion a band puts them across with. Dawes emphatically had both.
As someone with a love for roots rock my entire life, the fact they echoed everyone from Neil Young to the Jayhawks really hit my sweet spot. That they did so with just enough personality to remain distinctive, with glorious harmonies and tight ensemble play, made them even more pleasing.
Naturally, Dawes concentrated on their latest disc, their second, Nothing Is Wrong. What was surprising is how familiar the audience was with the new songs, screaming along with the band at every turn. La Zona was really only half full, but it seemed like everyone was thrilled to be there, which is ultimately the best concert experience and one that happens very infrequently these days.
“This has been such a such a fantastic experience for us,” gushed singer and guitarist Taylor Goldsmith near the end
of the band’s 90-minute set. As the converted all hollered their agreement, I realized I had discovered my favorite new band.
This article appears in August 26 • 2011.