Walking into The Crocodile, it was hard to believe that just a week ago at the same venue I was there, in the heart of the hip-hop scene, seeing Nacho Picasso and Cam’ron. To say that a different crowd filled the venue to see LA-based (but Oregon raised) ZZ Ward would be doing an injustice to the word different. Where blunt-smoking youngsters stood just a week before stood parental couples on date nights and dolled-up ladies singing along to the pop melodies between sets. That both shows seemed equally at home at The Crocodile not only speaks to the versatility of the venue, but also to the adaptability of the acts.
I can only imagine, however, that ZZ Ward would be able to put on a top show anywhere. While the crowd’s anticipation of her arrival was more reminiscent of a sold-out stadium performance than a back-door (albeit The Crocodile might feel a bit more back-door than it actually is) club, the soul she brought to the stage excelled in the smaller setting. Playing almost nightly on her current national tour, Ward was able to bring that good ol’ personal touch to this show (as I imagine she does all) like it was the first night all over again.
If Ward’s own inherent talent wasn’t enough, we were treated to a very special guest about midway through the set. Her father, whom she credits for at least half of her musical upbringing, joined his daughter for a Son House cover accompanying her with his harmonica. Shortly following this familial surprise, Ward broke into her most popular song – “Put the Gun Down” and (I’ve always wanted to say this) the crowd went wild. Everyone was intrinsically moving and singing along. It seemed in the moment that each person let go of any self-consciousness and was openly expressing their unabashed passion for the music they were hearing.
Martin Harley and Delta Rae opened each brought just as much zest as Ward to the bill to create a well-rounded evening of tunes (and dancing, of course). Harley is an English South-coaster who, between lyrical ballads, swore heavily and openly pined for the post-set pint (be still, my British heart!). Delta Rae, co-headlining Ward’s national tour, played some impressively non-country Southern rock with two lady singers whose pipes are something to write home about. Well played by all, well danced by all, well done by all.
