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The Robert Cray Band in Concert
When it comes to live performance, The Robert Cray Band like to get right down to business. Though they're led by one of the most distinctive blues guitar stylists of his generation, and the rest of the band bears a similar amount of instrumental authority, they don't like to showboat. Flashy licks are simply not what Cray and company are all about.
Instead, they cut right through to the emotional core of every tune — whether they're playing the classics that put Cray on the map, like "Right Next Door" and "Smoking Gun," or killing it on covers of tunes by the likes of Bill Withers, Bobby "Blue" Bland, or The Mississippi Sheiks. Cray and his cohorts use their mighty musical prowess in the service of the song. Sure, you'll hear plenty of fluid guitar solos, but at a Robert Cray show you'll never hear a single unnecessary note — in other words, everything he and his band play on stage really matters.
The Robert Cray Band Background
Robert Cray did more for the blues in the 1980s than anybody other than Stevie Ray Vaughan. He started out small with a string of early-'80s indie albums, but by the middle of the decade the singer/guitarist's blend of blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll influences made its way to the mainstream with a major-label deal that introduced the world to the game-changing Strong Persuader LP.
Between his supple grooves, soulful vocals, storytelling songs, and stinging guitar solos, Cray emerged as the blues hero the '80s didn't even know they were waiting for until he came along. Over time, Cray's sound has become simultaneously deeper and more expansive. His reputation has grown to the point that he's an esteemed elder statesman of modern blues, a winner of multiple Grammy awards, and an artist as venerated today as any of his heroes were when he was growing up and learning his licks.
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He’s so good. I seen him over 10 times and Would see him every single time he’s within 150 miles! His guitar sounded so good. And his keyboard player added much. Great show.
Robert Cray and his band gave a packed, full-house at The Birchmere a wonderful concert. His voice was strong and silky, and his performance meticulous. Mr. Cray made subtle, funny witticisms about the Dodgers and Yankees between songs, which made us all laugh. A Dodgers fan, as one would expect. (And they won!) He has a faithful fan base.
I've been seeing Robert Cray live for the past 15 years. His show is always spot on!! The venue was great. Robert's band is a well oiled machine; the same talent at every show I attended.
Robert Cray is an underappreciated American icon. Always a great show!!!
Entering the show was very easy. We had great seats and Robert Cray was incredible as always! This was my sixth time to see this gentleman and he is a true blues icon.
Robert killed it in the beautiful Paramount Theatre! I have seen this man and his band at least 10 times and I have never been disappointed. The set playlist was varied and represented his legendary 50 year career. It absolutely baffles me that he is not more mainstream! Unbelievable guitar player and incredible vocals backed by a tight band. I hope to see him as many times as possible. "Time Makes Two"is as good as it gets. Keep "making it funky"Robert for 50 more years!
I would actually give this concert 4.75 stars, but that's not an option. Almost everything about it was outstanding, including the beautiful venue, the warm-up act (Zach Day) and Robert Cray's performance both on guitar and vocals. The sound mix was pristine, both loud and clear. Cray, who is 71, still sounds like he's in his 30s and his guitar work was as great as ever. His band was amazingly tight. The only quibble, and it's a very small one, was the setlist. It would have been nice to hear a couple of Cray's older classics, like Smoking Gun or Don't Be Afraid of the Dark, but I still enjoyed everything he played. Just hearing him play Time Makes Two was worth the price of admission.
The Robert Cray band had the timing of a Lamborghini. Coupled with the Paramount theaters History and ambience it provided the final Crème de la crème. The clarity and richness of full sound. It was its own experience. I flew in for this show from Texas and had high expectations that were all Celestially exceeded. Robert Cray can play!
We have seen Robert Cray about 9 times in 40 years. They are as good as they were in their 30s. Bob is so crisp and clear and plays as clean as anyone I have ever seen. The whole band is so in sync and tight...just puts you in a great mood from the second they start playing. Robert Cray Band never disappoints. They take you on a magic carpet ride of blues fluidity.
Terrific concert. He sounds great. Band was great too. Fantastic stage presence. Paramount Theatre in Anderson is awesome!
I saw Robert Cray open up for the Doobie Brothers. Although he sounded really good, I was so disappointed that he didn’t play any of the hits I grew up with like strong persuader, don’t be afraid of the dark or smoking gun. His voice was amazing, but as others have said, their volumes on certain instruments were a little bit off
My experience was wonderful. We stayed at Crown Plaza Hitel. Was viral, beds were so comfy and folks more than accommodating. It was a Sunday so so nor slot of establishments open. But we did find a pub close by with good food. We Uber Ed as well. Our experience was truly fun.
My wife and I have been fans forever and this was our first chance to see Robert Cray. The MAN and his Band were Absolutely Fantastic.
Venue was easy to get in, easy to get out, very nice security & staff. Better yet, Robert Cray and his ensemble were just outstanding and Cray's voice range & guitar playing is stellar!! Thanks to all for a Crayful Sunday evening blues project experience!!
Fabulous show! 50 years and still just as good from the start.
I have been following Robert Cray and his band around for about 37 years. I have seen him in eight shows in three different countries and after each one of his shows, I am always looking forward to the next one. Not only is he charismatic, but he is my favorite in blues, for composition, playing, and singing. I love this playing for tone and also for feeling; I find many of his songs incredibly moving. In this 50th-year celebration tour, he's playing many of his biggest songs (Bad Influence, Right Next Door, Won't Be Coming Home, Phone Booth, etc.) and some of his less known, as well. Just saw him three days ago and I cannot wait to see him again.
Robert’s voice and playing were top notch. The man is 70 and is still as amazing as the first time I saw him way back in mid 1980s
Robert Cray is a great performer. Beautiful voice and excellent guitar player. The bass player was also excellent and very entertaining. The band was very cohesive.
Robert Cray and band was amazing just pure talent no petals or sound affects it was a great night highly recommend seeing him
enjoyed the meat pie! music hall rocks. not a bad seat in the whole place.
