Moreland and Arbuckle is a three piece band from Kansas formed by Dustin Arbuckle on harp, bass and vocals and Aaron Moreland on guitar. They are ably assisted by Kendall Newby on sticks. It’s an early 8 o’clock start for the first of two sets tonight and the band enters the stage from what must be the most elaborate of entrances down a spiral staircase.
Its straight into Tall Boogie with Arbuckle strapping on a four string cigar box guitar and we rattle through 45 minutes of the finest blues from a tight band with the two leads alternating between harmonica and guitar breaks. With no pre-defined set list, tracks are picked from their back catalogue along with songs from their new album that exist somewhere in their mind and a hard drive somewhere to quote the band. On first listen I can’t wait till the spring when it drops. Highlights of the first half are Quivira from the excellent 7 cities and we even have time for a harmonica solo from Arbuckle as he gets down into the crowd and walks around the room.
An interval ensues and the band decant to the merch stand where I think most of the audience buys something. I duly oblige, have a chat and get some stuff signed.
Back on stage for another blistering 45 minutes with the band shifting through the gears showcasing their prolific talents. It’s a swampy, roots blues masterclass and solos are exchanged between the harp and slide guitar. Lisa Mills, who is playing the same venue tonight, joins the band for an impromptu Jimmy Reed cover and man what a pair of lungs. No warm up and straight in, full tilt, with Joplinesque power.
The band close with the legend of John Henry and an extended jam, Newby getting in on the act with an impressive drum solo and we’re done.
A superb show from these accomplished musicians who managed to rock the pier in this not so rock n roll venue. Can’t wait for their return. Keep on rockin’ y’all.