I had a good feeling that I wouldn’t be disappointed going to see the band I have been trying to see for so long this weekend. Three different artists, from three different styles of music, independently have recommended that I go check out the BackSliders show. While it took a little while it took me a little while to match up my schedule with their show schedule, this weekend at Lee Harvey’s, I finally got to see the BackSliders live.
First, we must set the stage: Lee Harvey’s.
Lee Harvey’s is a one of a kind restaurant, bar and music venue located south of downtown in The Cedars area. Lee Harvey’s is an old house set on a large lot (I’d say at least half an acre…maybe a full acre), surrounded by barbwire, concertina wire, and an industrial storage lot complete with a well fed junk yard guard dog. The front yard is the main place where folks hang out at space with tons of large picnic benches (30?) and fire cauldrons to keep you warm on cold nights. There is a nice sized stage and an outdoor bar area. Inside is the main bar and a few small rooms, sitting areas, and a pool table. The drink prices are reasonable and the food is fantastic (the burger and the chipolte panini are highly recommended….and may I suggest the fries AND onion rings as great sides). The first time I went down there was about a year and a half ago with Blake, and my first impression was an unusual one. The setting there is great, but not what or where you would expect to find it. In an area that isn’t very residential or retail (not much by the way of housing/retail/business) you have this space carved out and fenced in with an amazing mix of people. Some nights it’s very young and Uptownish, and other nights, like Saturday night, you had a mix of Uptown, a little bit of Uptown, and a mix of folks from all over the city. Lee Harvey’s is a one of a kind Dallas night spot, and it comes with my highest recommendation.
ON TO THE MUSIC!
The BackSliders put on a great show. Their sound and style is upbeat and rocky, but not heavy. They played a few covers to get things going, but the majority of their music was their original music. Their lead singer, Kim Pendleton-Bonner, has a great voice that is sultry and fun to listen to. When she really get’s, going a hint of rasp makes itself known. The combination of her voice with a very talented group of musicians up there with herd came together very well. I loved how they kept the energy levels high, and kept the crowd engaged without going over the top and leaving their own style and sound to suffer.
If you get the chance to see the Backsliders, or to have a beer and burger at Lee Harvey’s, I think you will enjoy your experience Below you will find links, music, and a purple dragon.
. Beth’s voice was strong, and her skills on the guitar were impressive. I didn’t realize how hard that girl could rock out on the electric guitar! It was also fun for me to see Linda play the electric bass, since I’ve almost exclusively seen her play the stand up bass (she kicks ass on both, in case you were wondering 
