I am truly grateful to special Casey James fan Shelly Cataline Country Music City Promotions Fan Correspondent who made the journey and trip from Lansing, Michigan for my place of absence for the sold out Dusty Armadillo Casey James show Saturday February 9,2013. Her dedication and support is truly unwavering. Thank you Shelley!
Country Music City Promotions Fan Correspondent Shelley Cataline with
Casey James photos by Shelley Cataline
One could tell you Casey James wears his heart and emotions on his sleeve, it is true, and as the person he is, artist and musician he truly shines. At his first live sold out show at The Dusty Armadillo the hottest little night club in Rootstown, Ohio Saturday night James performed the hits "Let's Don't Call It A Night" and "Crying On A Suitcase" from his debut album including "Drive", "The Good Life" and "She's Money" before breaking out into new material.
photo courtesy of Shelley Cataline
" Breaking Through The Blue" an up tempo tune has the making of a country radio hit single, it's contagious melody fits that radio mold. For those who have seen James live changes guitars through out the hour and a half set. Once James pulls out the shiny black and sliver guitar fans know it's time for "Drive" the fast paced, upbeat song that guarantees you to get those feet a tapping. On the new "A Woman's Touch" a soulfully bluesy song has quickly become a fan favorite among the Team Casey James fan base, fans want to see this become a follow up single ( not yet released). The song itself has a seductive soulful blues vibe any woman would fall for. Steel guitarist David Kurrasch brings the song it's magic.
photo courtesy of Shelley Cataline: from left to right David, Dino, Casey
Partly through the set Casey talks to the crowd before breaking into "Crying On A Suitcase", as of 2-11-13 on media base chart Crying On A Suitcase sits at number 14. It was quite obvious everyone knew the song singing along with James and as for the grin on his face that I see often at shows Casey loves when the crowd breaks out singing along with him. Following, Casey went on to perform yet another new penned song, "Run Away" to " Love The Way You Miss Me" in which Casey so deservedly dedicates to our service men and women who are serving our country. In the upbeat bluesy cover of "So High" which James performs frequently had the crowd cheering and dancing. On yet another newly penned song James performs "She's My Girl" and for those who haven't heard the newly performed songs country music fans can see and hear them on YouTube, they are well worth watching. James' cover of "Need Your Love So Bad" simply oozes appeal, the bluesy ballad is down right performed beautifully. At one point through the set Casey looks out amongst the crowd adoringly seen here.
photo courtesy of Shelley Cataline
It was a bitter sweet moment for Casey to announce friend and keyboardist Justin Pate was moving on in his musical endeavors, after some tears were shed it was clear how upsetting it was to announce. This would be Justin's last gig with the Casey James band. These are moments that are most difficult and the crowd cheered him on and we can only wish Justin the best in his journey.
photo courtesy of Shelley Cataline
On the last song sung James breaks out on the cover of "Polk Salad Annie" a real crowd pleaser and fan favorite to which each band member is spotlighted and recognized for their artistry. Visibly Casey get's lost in the moment with his guitar on the song. In some instances Polk Salad Annie lasts up to 15 minutes, however on this night Casey and the band played roughly 8 to 10 minutes.
Truly Casey and his band mates have a special bond, their good hearted nature is just who they are.
photo courtesy of Shelley Cataline
Two hours past show time Casey made sure every fan received an autograph and photos with them, after all they have gotten Casey to this very place in his career. Casey James is more than a musician and artist he takes time with those who truly supports him. It shows how devoted Casey James fans are.
