By: Michael Bragg (Photo Gallery & Review)of MJBragg Photography
Barnardsville, NC (4/3/21) – Let me say this first…ABOUT DAMN TIME!!!
As I headed up the mountain to Barnardsville, NC I was filled with anticipation for the night as live music is finally coming back. Making my first trip to the The Barn at Paint Fork I wasn’t sure quiet what to expect. I’d heard great things about the venue but had been missing shows there prior to the Covid 19 craziness. I was eager to see live music again but also experience a new venue. Upon arrival, down some beautiful country roads , I found you park at an elementary school and take a short ride on a school bus to the venue. With a hog farm on the hill over looking the stage, a few big fire pits, some drinks and great food the venue definitely had my attention before the show even started…just an all around unique setting. As the night began the crowd gave a round of applause and loud cheer to the owner Eddie as he gave a statement about getting back to living and just having a laid back good time kicking the night off with a standing salute to the USA National Anthem.
The evenings show was to be headlined by Confederate Railroad but an unfortunate home accident kept lead singer Danny Shirley from being able to perform. That’s when the great Kentucky Headhunters stepped up to fill in. Having seen these guys 3 previous times I knew what I was in for but the group always seems to find a new way to impress me. I honestly think this is one of the most underrated bands out there. These guys are veterans of the music scene and have to be one of the tightest bands I’ve had the pleasure of seeing live. There’s no holding back as these guys leave it all on the stage playing a variety of musical styles from southern rock to blues and gospel. A set list filled with hits such as “Oh Lonesome Me,” “Stumblin’,” “Spirit In The Sky,” “Walk Softly On This Heart Of Mine” and the ever so popular “Dumas Walker” kept fans on their toes and singing along all night.
Mixing the night up a bit was direct support act Jasmine Cain. She has been a staple of the music scene as well for years as she’s toured the bike rallies making a name for herself and also having performed with many notable big name acts over the years. I’ve seen her band performed numerous times over the years. Every show she’s gives a 110% as she’s proves time and again women can rock harder than some men out there. Playing a variety of songs from bands like Skid Row, Tool, Ozzy and more she also mixes in a variety of her own originals as well. Jasmine Cain fans are a dedicated bunch which was very evident by the amount of JC shirt/hoodies spread throughout the crowd.
Other openers for the night were Rocky Yelton and The Hired Guns along with Diamonds and Whiskey. Both groups brought a variety of country favorites to the crowds approval. Blending a mix of traditional favorites to new country both bands prepped the crowd for the aforementioned great evening.
Be sure to check out The Barn at Paint Fork website for more info on upcoming dates for artists like TN Jet, Larry Fleet, Whitey Morgan and more.
Do not alter photosCopyright – Michael Bragg/MJBragg Photography *Photos use with permission only