The last time singer-songwriter Jason Isbell played Red Butte, it was a cold and rainy day in June. Tonight he’ll play Red Butte again and once again his fans will break out their winter jackets—and possibly rain gear—to see him again.
Isbell has been playing in Salt Lake for years (including one lovely night at Snowbird several years ago, countless State Room gigs, a free show at the Utah Arts Festival, the afore mentioned rainy Red Butte show two years ago and a stop last year at The Depot) and he has a loyal fanbase here—and a little inclement weather is not going to get in the way of their good time.
The Muscle Shoals, Alabama native has a knack for character-driven storytelling within his music. Whether it’s the story of a father giving advice to his son or a friend of a woman dying of cancer, Isbell’s lyrics cut to the bone and are presented in way that puts him in the good company of Springsteen, Waits and Newman. Mix in his guitar-chops (which have improved upon each of his visits to Salt Lake) and you’ve got yourself a recipe for a fine rock and roll show.
Jason Isbell plays Red Butte tonight. Doors are at 6 and the music starts at 7. Margaret Glaspy opens. The show is sold out, but the weather may make some tickets held by casual fans available.
