Sam Outlaw & Friends Light Up Putney
A cozy warm pub, cold beer, and great Country Music – what more could one ask for? I felt as though I may be a tad out of place in my jeans and country boots this evening, as I stepped into the Half Moon Putney – but I was met with an array of Country music fans just like me, all ready for a great night of soothing guitars and good vibes. As the doors swung open to the stage, fans cheered around the pub in excitement for what was coming, Sam Outlaw was playing the Half Moon, and we were all ready for it!
Southern Vibes: Hannah Aldridge & Katie Bates Open the Show
Sam was joined on stage this evening by his support act and close companions Hannah Aldridge & Katie Bates. The two opened the show and offered a real taste of homegrown southern sound. Hannah Aldridge, coming all the way from Alabama, was a spectacular open for Sam. The southern storytelling from songs such as “Burning down Birmingham” painted a soulful picture of the Yellowhammer state, a mix of heartache and soul that echoed around the homely stage room.
Sam Outlaw Takes the Stage with Laid-Back Charm
Shortly after this opener, Outlaw stepped out and joined the two for the start of his set, and was met with great applause. Sam’s approach to both the music and crowd interaction gave off a laid-back country feel that we all came looking for. The warm setting of the Half Moon allowed everyone to wrap together and watch on as the band made jokes, and told stories about the songs being played. Sam’s connection to Hannah was so beautiful to see, the two completing a duet together during the set where we got a mix of Sam’s Californian upbringing and Hannah’s southern roots.
Nashville Guitar Talent: Andrew Leahay Shines on Stage
Another member of the group, Andrew Leahay – a talented country guitarist from Nashville who had been touring with Sam over the last few weeks was also pinnacle to the performance, not only did he add to the elegant harmonies that the band had to offer, his guitar rung out some of those classic country bends that we love to hear! The group moved from the UK to Sweden this week, where they will wrap up their tour of Europe. Having only met one month before the performance, the chemistry and friendships amongst the band were just a pleasure to watch.
Sam Outlaw’s “Ghost Town” Sparks Singalong Moment
Sam Outlaw’s performance of his hit ‘Ghost Town’ had fans erupt into song as they joined him in the chorus. Sam even backed away from the mic to allow the crowd to sing their part. Emphasising that communication was a principle of his performance. A mix of his congeniality, warmth, and humour made it feel as though we were a friend of Sam’s and a part of his performance that evening.
After a special night of appealing Country sounds, Sam stepped off the stage with the band and got amongst the crowd for a handful more acoustic songs such as “Jesus Take the Wheel”. Stripped of mics, wires, and amps. The crowd watched on, fascinated as we all swayed to the soothing sound of acoustic guitars and friendly harmonies. Wrapping up the night in true country fashion.
