BY DREW DRAIN On a warm September night in Raleigh, North Carolina, the Coastal Credit Union Music Park transformed into a vibrant oasis ...
BY DREW DRAIN
On a warm September night in Raleigh, North Carolina, the Coastal Credit Union Music Park transformed into a vibrant oasis of music, joy, and connection as Nathaniel Rateliff and My Morning Jacket graced the stage. The atmosphere was electric from the moment the gates opened, with fans buzzing with excitement, anticipating a night of unforgettable performances.
As dusk settled over the amphitheater, the sounds of laughter and chatter filled the air. Attendees of all ages gathered, many sporting band t-shirts and glowing with enthusiasm. The venue itself, with its natural surroundings and open-air design, provided the perfect setting for this stellar lineup. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow that only added to the ambiance.
The evening kicked off with Nathaniel Rateliff, who stepped onto the stage to thunderous applause. Clad in a stylish ensemble of dark pants, a white button up shirt, and snazzy suspenders that echoed his vintage sound, he exuded a warm charisma that instantly drew in the audience. Rateliff’s band, the Night Sweats, joined him, and together they created a rich tapestry of sound that perfectly complemented his soulful vocals.
Opening with “Sufer Me,” Rateliff immediately captivated the crowd. The infectious rhythm had everyone on their feet, singing along, and swaying in unison. The song's upbeat tempo was a perfect fit for the lively atmosphere, and it set the tone for the rest of the set. Rateliff's voice, deep and raspy, conveyed raw emotion, and his passionate delivery left listeners hanging on every word.
Throughout his performance, Rateliff showcased his versatility as an artist. From the poignant “You Worry Me” to the electrifying blend of Americana, funk, and soul that is "S.O.B."” he effortlessly traversed a range of emotions. Each song seemed to resonate with the audience, creating a deep sense of connection. Fans cheered and clapped enthusiastically, fully engaged with the music.
The highlight of Rateliff’s set was undoubtedly his cover of “Dancing in the Dark,” a Bruce Springsteen classic. He infused it with his own style, giving it a soulful twist that sent chills down spines. The crowd erupted in applause, demonstrating their appreciation for his artistry. The chemistry between Rateliff and his band was palpable; their camaraderie radiated from the stage and further energized the audience.
After Rateliff’s stirring set, the anticipation for My Morning Jacket grew to a fever pitch. As the band took the stage, a collective cheer erupted from the audience, echoing throughout the amphitheater. Jim James, the band’s charismatic frontman, commanded attention with his unmistakable voice and captivating stage presence.
Opening with “The Dark” My Morning Jacket immediately showcased their signature blend of rock, psychedelia, and Americana. The musicianship was nothing short of extraordinary; each member brought their unique flair, creating a lush and layered sound that enveloped the audience. The interplay between the guitar riffs, rhythmic drumming, and James’s soaring vocals was a masterclass in live performance.
One of the most striking aspects of My Morning Jacket’s performance was their ability to seamlessly shift between genres and tempos. From the high-energy “One Big Holiday” to the more reflective “The Way That He Sings,” delving into themes of longing and discovery with poignant lyrics and emotional delivery, the band kept the audience on their toes. Fans danced, swayed, and sang along, creating an atmosphere of pure joy. The camaraderie among the crowd was palpable; strangers exchanged smiles and moved in sync, united by the music.
The band’s setlist was a beautiful blend of classic favorites and newer material. Songs like “Circuital” and “Touch Me I’m Going to Scream, Pt. 2” were met with rapturous applause, proving the band’s ability to connect with both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Each performance felt like a celebration, with the audience fully engaged and responsive, cheering loudly after each song and shouting for more.
As the evening progressed, the excitement in the amphitheater reached its peak. My Morning Jacket closed their set with a thrilling rendition of The Rolling Stones' “You Can't Always Get What You Want,” which had the entire audience dancing as if no one were watching. The beat was infectious, and the euphoric atmosphere made it impossible to stand still. Fans cheered and clapped, reveling in the moment as the band soaked up the crowd's energy.
As the final notes faded and the lights dimmed, the audience erupted in cheers, applauding the unforgettable performances they had just witnessed. The warm night air was filled with the sounds of laughter and conversations as fans buzzed about their favorite moments. The sense of community and shared appreciation for the music lingered long after the last song had played.
Reflecting on the evening, it was clear that both Nathaniel Rateliff and My Morning Jacket had left an indelible mark on the hearts of those in attendance. Their ability to create an immersive, energetic experience highlighted the transformative power of live music. The connection between the artists and the audience was palpable, reminding everyone of the unique joy that comes from sharing an evening of music under the stars.
In a world where moments can often feel fleeting, the magic of that night at Coastal Credit Union Music Park will be remembered fondly by all who were lucky enough to be there. Nathaniel Rateliff and My Morning Jacket proved once again that great music has the power to unite and inspire, leaving a lasting impression that resonates well beyond the final note. Here’s to more nights filled with such joy, energy, and connection!
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- DREW DRAIN
Andrew (Drew) Drain is originally from Point Pleasant, WV, and he now resides in Chapel Hill, NC with his daughter. Drew works as a financial risk management professional to pay the bills, but his real passion is photography. He started taking photos of his daughter playing soccer as a way to resist the urge to coach her from the sidelines. Time behind the camera developed into a love for photography that he has paired with his love for sports and live music. Follow Drew’s Instagram, @Drew.Drain.Photo or his MaxPreps galleries, to check out more of his work or contact him if you need photos of your favorite athlete or performer.
Read Drew's posts here.
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