Greer, SC (3/6/22) – Sometimes it does you good to step out of your comfort zone and experience something new that you typically wouldn’t be a part of. I say “experience” because that’s exactly what Marc Broussard and guest opener Jamie McLean provided to the crowd at The Spinning Jenny in Greer, SC this evening. At the risk of more embarrassment, I must’ve been hiding under a rock to not really be familiar with either of tonight’s artists. My lack of knowledge to these entertainers was quickly put into question by the multiple friends I ran into at this show. It would not take long to see what I’ve been missing out on.
The Jamie McLean Band would take the stage first and wasted no time proving why they have amassed thousands of streams and followers on digital platforms. The 3 piece band infuses a blend of blues, soul and Americana capped with a rock ‘n’ roll edge. Jamie and band have shared the bill with greats like Aaron Neville, Greg Allman, Derek Trucks and more on stages from Madison Square Garden, Bonnaroo to Japan. With his new album “Paradise Found” set to release on March 18th, 2022 McLean would feature many new songs in his set such as “Give My Life To Rock ‘n’ Roll,” “Something About Love” and “Hotels and Cabarets.” The songwriting is of truth and gives fans the ability to actually connect and feel the music.
Next up would be the headliner Marc Broussard. Hailing from Louisiana it’s no surprise that Marc’s music contains some of that Bayou Soul. The additional blending of R&B, Funk, and some Southern Rock are what make his music stand out. From the moment the stage lights come on Broussard and band command your attention. The powerful vocal presence and energy draw you in to every note. The groups use of dynamics is some of the best I’ve seen as they take you on a musical journey of highs and lows. Having 12 releases under his belt Broussard has plenty of music to pull from to fill his sets. Tonight’s would include songs like “Home,” “Rocksteady” and “The Wanderer.” Broussard would go on to include a medley of covers as well that would include Stevie Wonder and James Brown amongst others.
There were plenty of lighthearted and comical moments through the set as well. Marc provided moments of laughter with jokes and storytelling. There were also the more serious moments as Broussard stripped it down for a solo acoustic performance of “Gavin’s Song” who he dedicated to his son in attendance.
Marc currently has dates listed in the states through May before heading across seas in August. The Jamie McLean Band will be back in the region March 16th, 17th & 18th with shows in Charlotte, Asheville and Brevard, NC.
