Sometimes the perfect soundtrack to a hot summer night is some red hot blues, soul, and gospel. Southern Avenue, brings that Memphis soul/blues one-two punch, to the beaches of Asbury Park tonight as the band performs at Jams on the Sand at The Anchor’s Bend beachfront stage.
The quintet recently dropped their sophomore record Keep On and they did so on the famed Stax label — a testament to not only their incredible musicianship, but just how huge the upside of the band is.
Recently, we caught up with guitarist/band leader Ori Naftaly to talk about their new record, the essence of the band, and more.
Please Note: This show has been moved to the Wonder Bar across the street due to forecast of inclement weather.
The band dropped Keep On earlier this summer. How do you feel this record stands out from the rest of your catalog?
I feel that this record shows a more in depth color of our blended musical styles.
In your bio it says on this record “you expand your gritty musical musical vision to embrace new musical challenges.” Can you explain this?
As a band of collaborators we all have a vision. It was important to us as artists that we created something that was a reflection of each of us. At the end of the day we just wanted to create an album that we all identify with artistically and that we are all proud of.
What are some of the lyrical themes you touch in this record, and why did you feel it was important to address them on this specific record?
We decided to continue with the positive messages like “Don’t Give Up” with songs like “Keep On” and “We’re Gonna Make It.” Music creates community and it’s important that we create a strong community of hope and positivity.
We also want to make our listeners feel empowered with songs like “Too Good For You.” Encouraging someone who may be in a failing relationship to find their solace in loving themselves.
“Jive” is also a song that we hope will empower people to endure a world of toxic encounters. It’s about using bad experiences as positive lessons and moving forward with wisdom, knowledge, and peace.
Now that this record is complete do you feel it’s taking the band in either a new lyrical or sonic (or both) direction?
I think this record just shows a lot more of who we are. We will always continue to write song lyrics from our experiences so of course as we grow as people, lyrically we will evolve. And we will also evolve in the way that we express that musically.
If someone has never heard Southern Avenue perform before what song would you recommend they check out in order to fully understand what Southern Avenue is all about musically — and why?
We would recommend listening to “Whiskey Love.” It’s a soulful blues tune song that rips off into this gospel rock jam at the end. It embodies our live sound, honest lyrics, and the roots of most of our musical influences.
At Jams on the Sand you’ll be playing literally in front of the Atlantic Ocean. That’s a pretty wild setting. What are some of the more unique settings you’ve performed in?
The stage view in Switzerland was filled with mountains and vineyards and a beauty that was simply remarkable. We are considerably blessed to have these experiences
What’s the most valuable lessons you’ve learned as a band since the day you formed?
We respect each other as family. So we communicate with that same respect. There’s nothing we can’t talk about or come to each other with. Because of this, we know each other very well and have a strong bond of trust. And that is very important to have in a unit. There are no feelings that get brushed under the rug, because we love each other and we all care about each other’s well being.
What’s a goal you want to hit for this band by the end of this year?
We want to do our best and go beyond our current capabilities. We always want to be better. Better musicians and better people.
What are you most excited for in 2019?
We are supporting Tedeschi Trucks Band for a handful of shows this fall. That’s a huge accomplishment and definitely the biggest highlight of the year!
Southern Avenue performs at Jams on the Sands tonight on the beachfront stage of The Anchor’s Bend at Convention Hall (North Beach Side). The show is free. The Mike Montrey Band opens things up.
Please Note: This show has been moved to the Wonder Bar across the street due to forecast of inclement weather.
