The Beginning Notes - Featuring Aaron Kelly

I had the pleasure of seeing Aaron Kelly and his band play the other night in the garden terrace at the Sidecar Supper Club in Batavia, IL. I've seen him many times. Sometimes solo or with Demi Clara. This time it was his band, who he affectionately refers to as brothers at this point. They are phenomenal musicians. I especially like the fiddle player, Brandon Reisdorf, who just increases the likelihood of your foot tapping to the beats.

(Pictured Above: Aaron Kelly Band)

I will admit, I know most of the songs, and I definitely wasn't the only one singing along with the band. Their sound is peppy Americana, I guess. Actually, it's probably best not to ask me to define their genre. I think a few of the songs sound a little country (which isn't usually my favorite), but I really like his albums.

Aaron is an impressive storyteller, both in his songs and in person. If you ever get the chance to see him live, do it! There is a different kind of closeness you feel to him and his music after hearing the stories he shares around each song. It reminds me of being a child, gathered around listening to someone read a story in class or at the library. You just want to hear what happens next.

Aaron has a way of pulling you into his world. His songs can make you feel happy and sad, sometimes at the same time, while somehow making you feel like you're part of this welcoming little community he's created. And although you can hear the influence of John Prine in his music, Aaron still has a style and sound that are completely his own. If you get a chance to see Aaron and Demi sing "In Spite of Ourselves" by John Prine, or the whole band play Aaron's songs together, you'll understand what I mean when I say they are fun to see live!

See a TINY clip from the other night. I was having too much fun to record more, I guess!

Learn more about Aaron Kelly and the Aaron Kelly Band:

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