Think about a musical group that has been around for over forty years. A band that combines, rock, jazz, pop and blues into one magical musical experience. Now imagine this same band winning numerous grammys, writing songs that have been the backbone of popular culture, and promoting a world tour every year since they first joined together. While no one could argue that this type of music madness has produced throngs of success and unforgettable times, there has also been a lot of hard work and toil involved. For any group to be successful for over four decades, it takes more than just an average group member, it requires true “Blood, Sweat and Tears.”
Blood, Sweat and Tears is more than just a band. With a history that began in the late 1960’s, this is a veteran group of musicians that has been an integral part of American culture and still remains popular today. They are known best for their billboard and grammy-winning classics like “Spinning Wheel” and “When I Die” and are often compared as the Saturday Night Live of bands due to their vivacious theatrics on stage and audience-based performances. Similarly, BST has also seemed to have “seasons” of musicians that have performed throughout the years like Al Kooper, David Clayton-Thomas and Tom Malone. Now with nine members on vocals, guitar, bass, keyboard, drums and horns, BST has been able to provide one rip-roaring, energetic and mesmerizing show.
In February, One World Theatre was able to host this legendary band within its theatrical walls for a night of incredible sound, lots of laughs and true musical history. The group was lead by new vocalist Jason Paige, who previously performed with artists such as Michael Jackson and Aerosmith, and has been seen in movies and on Broadway. Under Jason’s direction, the room was jumping with energy and applause. Glimmering brass trumpets and saxophones swayed up and down, their tubes exploding with jovial sound. Drumsticks snapped down and vibrated against the hollow percussion, while fingers swept across the black and white of the keys to compliment all other instruments. This was a show that was full of passion, and made audience members want to jump up and dance (and many did.)
While BST has performed in venues from New York to California and everywhere in between, being able to experience their show at the One World Theatre made for one remarkable night. While the band has performed at music halls, festivals and large venues, being able to see all nine members and relive the music of a band that has been playing for decades in such an intimate venue was more than divine. Experiencing your favorite artist in this theatrical jewel will only elevate their music to its full potential, and is just another reason why One World Theatre is one of the best music venues in Austin. Come and enjoy its magic for yourself.
