Though “Club Passim” in Cambridge has a generally laidback vibe, it took the homey comfort of a prodigal son to turn it into a what a coffeehouse should be. Slaid Claves played his highly literate tunes in front of capacity crowd of about 100. Square tables, appetizers and friendly stories made Cleaves’ feel like a true portrait of the artist.
While I’ve been exploring Cleaves’ back catalog for the last few weeks, the live experience showed the depth of quality tunes that Cleaves has written. Even with just one musician by his side, Cleaves managed to rock out on “Horseshoe Lounge,” swing “Texas Love Song,” and strum “Cry.” Cleaves moved between styles easily and his laid back manner felt natural and personal throughout the night.
He described the Texans’ love of their home state and that he now shares in “Texas Love Song.” Then he explained his relationship Rod Picott who he met in second grade in South Berwick, Maine. He described how they’re co-written song “Broke Down” changed Slaid Cleaves life forever and gave him his break. The two have continued this relationship periodically and “Welding Burns” from the new album is another prime example.
In true country songwriting style, Cleaves explored the hard living, hard drinking life. His more rockin’ tunes “Horseshoe Lounge” and “Drinkin’ Days” showcase how a rock song can sound great in an acoustic setting. The daytime for Cleaves’ hard drinking protagonists seems to be blue collar. “Welding Burns” shows a true sense of the physical toll of such a life on one’s body.
In addition to his persona on stage, I went out to chat with Cleaves on the break. He was approachable and down to earth. Even though I’m late to the Cleaves’ bandwagon, I’ll be sure to catch him when he comes to town again.
Photos by Suzanne Davis McMahon
About the author: Jeff is a teacher in the Boston area. When not buried correcting papers, Jeff can be found plucking various stringed instruments and listening to all types of americana music.