The Dead South

The Dead South•July 20, 2023•Red Butte Garden Amphitheater

Reviewed and Photographed by Kevin Rolfe

On Thursday night, July 20th, Red Butte Garden in Salt Lake City was treated to an electrifying performance by The Dead South, a Canadian folk-bluegrass group. As the band filled the air with their unique blend of blues, bluegrass, and folk music, the audience was mesmerized. With a mix of originals and traditional tunes, the band had the crowd dancing and singing along throughout the night. The energy in the amphitheater was amazing, as everyone present seemed to be lost in the moment, enjoying an unforgettable evening of live music.

The Dead South is a Canadian folk-bluegrass group that was formed in 2012. Hailing from Regina, Saskatchewan, the band consists of Nate Hilts on lead vocals and guitar, Scott Pringle on mandolin and vocals, Colton Crawford on banjo and vocals, and Danny Kenyon on cello and vocals. 

Their music style can be best described as a unique blend of blues, bluegrass, and folk. They incorporate traditional instruments like banjo, mandolin, and cello, with a modern twist. Their sound is characterized by fast-paced rhythms, catchy melodies, and tight harmonies. 

The Dead South brings a fresh and energetic approach to the folk-bluegrass scene, infusing their music with their own personal experiences and storytelling.  Their lyrics often touch on themes of love, loss, and life’s hardships, creating a heartfelt and relatable connection with their audience. The band’s ability to seamlessly blend different musical elements while staying true to their roots has gained them a devoted following.

The Dead South’s infectious energy and undeniable talent have allowed them to carve out a unique niche in the music industry. With their authentic sound and captivating performances, they continue to push the boundaries of traditional folk music and captivate audiences all over.

As the sun set over Salt Lake City, fans began to pour into the picturesque Red Butte Garden amphitheater for a night of foot-stomping fun with The Dead South. The pre-concert atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as fans of all ages and backgrounds gathered to hear the band’s signature blend of bluegrass and folk music.

Concertgoers enjoyed the beautiful surroundings of Red Butte Garden as they settled into their seats or claimed a spot on the lawn. Some enjoyed picnic baskets and wine, while others indulged in cold beers or signature cocktails. The relaxed atmosphere was perfect for mingling and catching up with friends, and the energy was palpable as the anticipation built for The Dead South’s performance.

It was clear that everyone was ready for the headlining act, and the anticipation only grew as the minutes ticked by. The stage was set, and the lights dimmed, signaling the start of The Dead South’s highly-anticipated set. Overall, the pre-concert atmosphere at Red Butte Garden was lively and energetic, and it set the perfect tone for what would be a thrilling performance by The Dead South.

The crowd grew restless with anticipation as The Dead South finally took the stage. Dressed in their signature attire, the four-piece band greeted the audience with a warm welcome before launching into their set.

From the opening notes, it was clear that The Dead South’s live show was going to be nothing short of spectacular. The band’s unique blend of bluegrass, folk, and rock had the entire crowd up on their feet, clapping and stomping along to the rhythm.

As the set continued, The Dead South showcased their impressive musicianship, seamlessly switching between banjos, guitars, and other stringed instruments. But what truly set the band apart was their powerful vocals and tight harmonies, which filled the venue with a sense of raw energy and emotion. Throughout the set, the band also displayed a great sense of humor and camaraderie, frequently bantering with each other and engaging with the crowd. Highlights included a lively rendition of “In Hell I’ll Be In Good Company” and a moving performance of “The Bastard Son.”

As the set drew to a close, the crowd begged for more, and The Dead South happily obliged, returning for an encore performance that left the audience cheering for more. It was a thrilling and unforgettable night of music, and The Dead South had proved that they were a force to be reckoned with on the live stage.

The Dead South’s performance at Red Butte Garden was a thrilling showcase of their unique blend of folk, bluegrass, and rock music. The four-piece band, consisting of Nathaniel Hilts, Scott Pringle, Colton “Crawdaddy” Crawford, and Danny Kenyon, put on a high-energy show that had the crowd on their feet and singing along.

Some of the standout moments from The Dead South’s performance included their hit songs “Boots” and “Broken Cowboy”. The band’s vocal harmonies were especially impressive during these songs, with each member showcasing their talents through intricate vocal interplay. Another memorable moment came during their performance of “Banjo Odyssey,” which was their set closer featurning an extended banjo solo. The crowd roared with approval.

The band’s cover of the classic song from The Doors “People Are Strange” was also a highlight, with lead vocalist Nate Hilts delivering a powerhouse performance that was equal parts gritty and soulful.

Overall, The Dead South’s performance at Red Butte Garden was a fantastic showcase of their talent and unique sound. They proved that they are not just a studio band, but also a group that can electrify an audience with their live performances