Paul Thorn should be known by the entire United States, but I don't think he is. My brother, Steve, introduced me to his music and I am darn happy that he did. I immediately added this to the list of reasons why I love my brother. Paul's musical styles bounce around quite a bit. I know he is a member of that Singer/Songwriter category and he also does well in that wide-ranging Americana genre that the rootsy hipsters enjoy nowadays. He throws in some Blues, Rock, and Gospel as well. I have never been part of a Revival, but I think his shows have a piece of that in them as well. He might play a bit of Swamp Rock too, as I was pretty swampy at the end of this show. That may have been caused by the high temperature inside however.
Mr. Thorn has a great way of connecting to his audience through his songs and storytelling. He speaks and acts in a genuine and heartfelt manner. He also makes sure to go throughout the crowd, hugging folks and posing for pictures and such during the show. After the show, he is always available for autographs and photos as well. I have included a picture of Paul with my super cool niece, Heather.
Paul returned to the Bull Run in Shirley, MA earlier in the month, after a successful appearance there last year. He even remembered meeting my niece from his last visit. To give you an example of how he connects with his audience, he noticed my young niece standing up in the crowd and said "I see some people brought their children with them. That's good because some of my fans are dying off and we need to replace them!" Paul got a good laugh from the audience for that one and provided a special memory for my family.
The audience received a little Paul Thorn bonus on this night, as the scheduled opening act did not appear. Paul did an acoustic set to get the night rolling. This provided me with a great opportunity to focus on his lyrics and not be distracted by how talented his band is when they are plugged in and rocking out. Bill Hinds is one bad man on the guitar. Michael Graham AKA Dr. Love, is a dynamo on keyboards. He can Boogie Woogie, Barrelhouse, or Chopstick the hell out of those keys! The bass player has similar hair to the late Robin Williams, which provided me with an odd feeling of reassurance and sadness.
I almost forgot to mention that there was a special guest appearance by Al Kooper. He joined Paul for a song during the acoustic set. Al Kooper is not to be confused with Alice Cooper, with the snakes and "School's Out" fame. This Al Kooper was one of the original members of Blood, Sweat, and Tears. He also discovered a band named Lynyrd Skynyrd. He has done a bunch of other things too. Google him. Learn something. Someday I won't be around to teach you all of this.
Another interesting tidbit about Mr. Thorn is that he was a professional boxer from 1985 to 1988. In fact, he fought Roberto Duran in 1988 (yes, that Roberto Duran) in Atlantic City. Duran's record was 82-7 at the time and Thorn's was 9-1-1. Paul lost in the 6th round due to a cut that couldn't be closed. It is an experience he speaks fondly of. I included some of the fight here.
If all of this doesn't make you want to check him out, then I don't know what will. His recorded music is excellent as well. Buy a CD or download whatever people download on their mysterious gadgets. These guys have developed quite a following and I think tickets will go fast next time they come around. Don't miss out!
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