Redd & the Paper Flowers Summer Nights Tour – Hot Mama’s Canteen
Hailing from Knoxville, Tennessee, Redd & the Paper Flowers are bringing the sounds of folk and the charm of Appalachia to the suburbs and the cities.
Composed of Bassist Katie Adams, Cellist Colleen d’Alelio, Mandelionist Gavin Gregg, and lead singer and guitarist Redd, this band is hitting the road for their Summer Nights tour. This four-piece group is a quiet force of nature. As you listen along, you would never believe that the four of them are all circled around one microphone. Watching them balance the sound of their voices and instruments was impressive, but the smooth and rich tones created with such little production are nothing short of incredible.
You can feel the easy-going energy flowing off of the musicians from the start, their smiles warm and their music just as inviting. Each player can read another like a book, as they sing, play, and move along with each other; their natural rhythm is practiced but cannot be taught. The level of communication this group has is off the charts, and the way they allow themselves to give in to certain moments and step back in others to watch their bandmates flourish works wonders. Their individual respective melodies, lines, and harmonies floated around the room, quieting the environment as people turned to tune in and enjoy the music.
From the hearty timbers of the cello that Colleen plays standing, to the resounding bass lines, the foundation of their music is always strong and clear. What is just as impressive outside of the entire group dynamic is the abilities that each member possesses individually, showcased through opening lines and solo opportunities. Bassist Katie is no exception to these soloistic moments, as the group thins out to allow those low tones to shine through. Together, Katie and Colleen play with a light and airy feel, which leaves space for the guitar and mandolin to rest softly on top. The way Gavin works his mandolin is tender and resonates angelically. The melodies he produces are so sweet and ring out as he plucks through each line. Redd’s guitar is full, and the chords she adds fit in with the rest of the music and bring it all together. Then, when their voices come in, they capture your full attention in an instant.
Even as they sing together–in harmony or otherwise–each of their voices remains distinct and unique. No one is lost in the groove or the vibe, which gives each vocal its own space to be heard and appreciated. Redd’s voice cascades as she sings the lead, the rasp in her tone breathtaking and utilized perfectly in this style. She paints the mountains, valleys, highs, and lows of Appalachia gracefully, and the rest of the group fills in all the colors with their crafted harmonies. It leaves you feeling peaceful and content while also always wanting more.
Their set list was a wonderful mix of covers with their own unique spin and original music: some released, and some releasing very soon. Each move between songs and each choice was well-thought-out with care, even the things the group did on the fly. The passion they have for their music is undeniable, and the talent and grace they exude is unmatched.
Listening to them play was like being transported back into a perfectly-preserved tavern in the middle of nowhere, listening to the sounds of the birds and the crickets and the wind with the most beautiful music swirling around you. They set the scene perfectly with their stylistic choices, which allows the lyrics to pull you in. As the words wash over you, you can take note of the descriptiveness of their storytelling and the care they put into their original work.
“We’re bringing some of Appalachia to you,” says lead singer Redd, who does not hesitate to add, “Go Bills!” Since the group was returning to the area.
Redd & the Paper Flowers are a must-see as they tour this summer. Check out their dates on their website reddandthepaperflowers.com, their linktr.ee redd.music, and their Instagram @reddandthepaperflowers to follow along with their tour.
