KENNY WAYNE SHEPHERD | LIVE PREVIEW
Tramshed, Cardiff, Tue 31 Oct
Back in the UK once again, with his eighth studio album ready to be given an airing on a Cardiff stage, Kenny Wayne Shepherd’s long career has seen him nominated for five Grammys and honoured with his own signature Stratocaster by Fender. When I spoke with Shepherd earlier this year, he told me: “I always play to the opportunity to shape and show the musical image that I feel needs to be created. Some songs, like Ride Of Your Life, give you the opportunity to lay it on down hard. It was not the intention to play one way or the other – the guitar chords are just used to showcase everything.
“Records should take people on a journey. I set out with the goal that this would be the best album of my career. You have to continually set the bar high if you want to accomplish anything.”
Setting the bar high in terms of music is assured when Shepherd entertains Cardiff. With a catalogue spanning eight albums, each one has a different sound but power and integrity are constants; likewise, strong lyrics and modern Americana influence.
Shepherd has also asked Laurence Jones to open the show. This ever-popular blues guitarist, plus band, will make sure the Tramshed is sizzling hot. Jones will be entertaining the crowds with old favourites and new numbers from his latest album The Truth.
Tickets: £26. Info: 029 2023 5555 / www.tramshedcardiff.com
words LIZ AIKEN photos GREG LOGAN