It did not take long for rocker Benjamin Booker to return to Tampa for a hometown show. Following up his opening performance at Coral Skies Music Fest, just one month prior, Booker announced a show at Hogan's Beach. It was sponsored by 97x and named the official 'NBT Pre-Party.'
Booker and his two backing members took to the beach stage just after 10pm and played about an hours worth of songs from his self titled debut album. (which was recently named #37 on 'Rolling Stone's 50 Best Album's of 2014' list)
Majority of the songs were very rock heavy, with Booker spending almost equal time between singing verses and shredding on guitar. He also dismissed the guitar for a few tunes and was accompanied by a violin and mandolin to play some songs with a more bluegrass feel. The 25 year old sings with much passion as he anxiously stomped and pulled at his shirt while belting out the words.
While Booker has a signature raspy voice, one negative I took out of the performance is that it's very difficult to understand him. Each word of the songs seem to run into the next, and it's tough to decipher one from another. This could have also been caused by Booker's on stage antics, as he appeared to be a bit 'out-of-it.'
The set ended with a lengthy jam session, followed by Booker quickly departing the stage and mysteriously exiting through the parking lot. The audience was appreciative of the performance but definitely confused with some of Booker's mannerisms.
The guy definitely has talent though and should continue to get more popular once his album catches on. His lead single, "Violent Shiver" is starting to get radio play and should lead to another strong year for this young guitarist. Booker has shows scheduled in Australia, Japan and the UK next spring before returning back to the States in March.
CONCERT RATING: 2 Stars
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