Band of Heathens w/ The Rifters

For the past two decades, Austin’s The Band of Heathens have been ahead of the curve. Whether that’s through incisive lyrics or a sound they crafted that’s become mainstream, the group of troubadours has been steadfast in their truth. On the band’s upcoming album, titled Country Sides, The Band of Heathens takes a look back at their career with gratitude and great satisfaction.
Formed in 2005, the Heathens broke into the public consciousness in 2009 with their heartfelt blend of country and rock, including memorable performances at Austin City Limits on PBS and the Austin City Limits Festival. Since then, members have come and gone, but principal songwriters Ed Jurdi and Gordy Quist give the band its collective focus and provide the DNA to the songs beloved by folks around the globe.
For a band that’s accomplished so much and on their own terms, the approach for this album was natural and felt right. The themes addressed on this album, such as the reflective, contemplative nature of the lyrical matter, led to questions like "What’s next?" As always, The Band of Heathens is debating what that future looks like. It certainly includes more music and touring. But, in what fashion? Not even they know. That said, their music continues to live on. Look no further than the success of 2011’s “Hurricane. Nearly 15 years later, the song went gold and has since been certified platinum, showcasing the band’s resonant sound. And, at this point in their career, they’re perfectly content with what they’re doing.
Opening for the show is The Rifters
The Rifters are Rod Taylor (guitar, mandolin, vocals), Don Richmond (guitar, mandolin, fiddle, banjo, pedal steel guitar, dobro, harmonica, vocals), and Jim Bradley (bass, vocals). Putting out more music than it seems should be right for three guys on stage, the Rifters employ a wide range of acoustic and electric instruments, combined with soaring three-part harmonies, to provide a mesmerizing variety of music from driving blue-grama-grass to ethereal desert beauty. The years of playing to the dance crowds in their northern New Mexico homeland has given their music a toe-tapping rhythm that is engaging and undeniable. With a pedigree of bands like Hired Hands, the Rounders, and South by Southwest among them, the Rifters are truly a musical voice of the west, and their region of high desert vistas and mountain majesty.