The Revivalists Make Their Way to the TLA Tonight

by Jaz Bowens

(photo by Alysse Gafkjen)

The Revivalist have always paved their own path, making music on their own terms, and gaining scores of fans along the way. The seven musicians, representing New Orleans, are known for smooth blends of funk, rock and a dash of folk. The band embarked on a 20+ city tour last month, making stops everywhere from Dallas to Miami to Chicago and up the east coast. Traveling from city to city and doing shows every night is exhausting, as any band can tell you, but how do seven musicians managed to stay sane while on the road?

Bassist George Gekas laughs and wonders the same thing. “Over the years, we’ve found ways to remain sane by learning everyone’s little quirks and preferences,” he says. “We just try to not press anyone’s buttons. A few days ago we got into an accident and that pretty much put our vehicle out of commission. We have a few weeks left of the tours so we decided to get a bus for the remainder, so extra room helps with sanity.”

All accidents aside they are prepared to continue down the road and their current album, City of Sound. Their album is ten songs full of varied instruments and southern charm. The confidence in these tracks can be felt and heard just as much as at their live shows. The video for their single “Criminal” really allows someone who isn’t able to make it to their shows grasp the high energy The Revivalists put forth in every performance.

“The only way to get the true essence of a band, particularly ours, is by performing live,” Gekas says. “You are able to connect to the audience and that’s what we pride ourselves on. Having a great show is crucial. It is something we all have done. Way back to our college days and we just try and strive to make every show better than the last.”

From their first self-titled EP to their current album they have remained true to themselves and are better than ever as they brew each member’s individual style and musical taste to complete a savory blend of an original, yet New Orleans-based style. Gekas explains, “if we all had the same personality and musical taste, that’ll make for a pretty bland album.”

I couldn’t agree more. Good thing bland, boring, or any variation of the word isn’t something you’ll hear or see from The Revivalist. The band will be at the TLA in Philadelphia on Wednesday, Nov. 19th so come check them out along with Red Wanting Blue and Foxtrot & The Get Down. NYC and Baltimore dates follow directly after. For more info on the band’s latest happenings, check out Facebook, Twitter, and their website.