Written by: Justine Brown
Photos by: Jim Brown
When MFM heard Trampled by Turtles was playing at some place called the “J Resort Glow Plaza” in Reno we weren’t quite sure what to expect. But on a warm summer night the spacious repurposed outdoor venue was actually lovely. I was particularly excited for this show because I’ve been a big fan of the Turtles for a few years now.
Following an opening act by The Color Green, Minnesota's finest bluegrass outfit (in my opinion), Trampled by Turtles, took the stage. The band proved that you don't need to be in an Appalachian hollow to feel the power and enjoy the harmonies of Americana.
From the moment the six Turtles stepped onto the outdoor stage, we could tell this wasn't going to be a typical bluegrass show. Frontman Dave Simonett, looking a little like a lumberjack who'd stumbled on a mandolin, quickly led his merry band of string-slingers into a frenzy. The set list was a journey through the band's catalog, with fan favorites like "Codeine,” “Whiskey” and "The Middle" sending the crowd into a frenzy.
But it wasn't all breakneck tempos and flying fiddle bows. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the band showed their softer side with the hauntingly beautiful " Alone." The crowd swayed like a sea of wildflowers, as fireflies (or were they just cell phone lights since I think we were in the wrong part of the country for fireflies) twinkled across the audience.
The highlight of the night came during an extended jam on "Victory," where each band member took turns showcasing their instrumental prowess. Erik Berry's mandolin solo was incredibly fast, while Ryan Young's fiddle playing was so intense he actually broke his fiddle.
As night fell, the energy only seemed to build. By the time the band launched into their encore with "Wait so Long," the crowd was in full dance mode. The light show, which had been subtle earlier, now painted the trees surrounding the venue in a kaleidoscope of colors, creating a surreal atmosphere.
In a city known for its indoor entertainment, the Turtles proved that the great outdoors is the ultimate concert hall. They delivered a show that was part bluegrass revival, part rock concert, and fully unforgettable. Trampled by Turtles didn't just play a concert; they threw a party where everyone was invited, and bluegrass was the guest of honor. If there were any doubts about the genre's ability to captivate a modern audience, this show trampled them into the ground. Reno may be known for its casinos, but for one night, the best jackpot was a perfect blend of music and nature under the Nevada stars.
As an added bonus, after the show we plodded over to the J Resort Casino to use the facilities and found fiddle player Ryan Young talking with some concert attendees.
It’s always a treat to spend a few minutes chatting with a band member, and Ryan was upbeat and funny and no disappointment in that regard. Whether you are into bluegrass or not, Trampled by Turtles is a lot of fun to watch. If they come your way, don’t miss the opportunity!
Music Fan Meters
Smoke Meter: Strangely none really to speak of? Really disappointed in the audience but then again there were kids around so probably a good thing some restraint was practiced.
Fight Meter: The only thing in a fight was the soles of every single Birkenstock on the playa...they were taking a beating for sure.
Sing Along Meter: None really but what wasn't presented by the audience in vocal participation was made up for ten fold in good ol' fashion festival style free-flowing dances that broke out all over the place. It was nuts. Little spinning circles of joy erupted all over as groups began to move together...until Ryan broke his fiddle! I'm sure some folks went to work the next day with a really sore neck!
Copyright © 2024 Music Fan Magazine - All Rights Reserved.
Powered by Coffee & and Fear of Dying Young