BY DREW DRAIN In the summer of 1996, my friend Braden handed me a mixtape that would forever change my musical landscape. Nestled between...
BY DREW DRAIN
In the summer of 1996, my friend Braden handed me a mixtape that would forever change my musical landscape. Nestled between tracks from emerging artists was “Cold Beverage” by G. Love & Special Sauce—a song that, with its laid-back groove and catchy lyrics, became an instant favorite. This track, from their self-titled debut album released two years earlier, encapsulated a unique blend of blues, hip-hop, and soul that was both refreshing and infectious. Decades later, I finally had the opportunity to experience this band live, bringing my musical journey full circle.
The audience was immediately transported back to the mid-‘90s. The band’s synergy was palpable, with G. Love’s soulful vocals and harmonica melodies intertwining seamlessly with Jeffrey Clemens’ dynamic drumming and Jimi “Jazz” Prescott’s deep bass lines. The trio’s chemistry, honed over three decades, was evident in every note they played.
The setlist was a carefully curated journey through their extensive discography, delighting long-time fans and newcomers alike. They treated the audience to favorites like “Baby’s Got Sauce,” and “Garbage Man.”
Midway through the performance, G. Love passed the mic to a fan in the front row, and he immediately went from observer to performer. He hit every lyric and never missed a beat. addressed the crowd. The personal touch fostered a sense of community within the venue, making the large crowd feel like an intimate gathering of friends.
The highlight of the evening came when the unmistakable opening riff of “Cold Beverage” filled the air. The crowd erupted in cheers, and I couldn’t help but reflect on that mixtape from years ago. The live rendition was electrifying, with the audience singing along to every word.
In conclusion, G. Love & Special Sauce’s performance at the Haw River Ballroom was a testament to their enduring appeal and musical prowess. The combination of a stellar setlist, exceptional venue, and the band’s undeniable chemistry made for an unforgettable evening. As I left the ballroom, the echoes of “Cold Beverage” still resonating in my mind, I couldn’t help but feel a profound appreciation for the enduring power of music and the memories it creates.
For a nostalgic trip back to where it all began, here’s the official music video for “Cold Beverage.”
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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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