Videos by American Songwriter
The crowd at Pittsburgh’s Club Café that showed up to see Pegi Young and the Survivors Tuesday night did not come because the bandleader is Neil ‘s wife. The band’s third album, Bracing For Impact, is proving to be its breakthrough. Cross format airplay and brisk sales have carved out an identity distinctly separate from her iconic husband. Somehow, the band managed to pack the energy of an arena sized show into a 1,000 square foot venue.
Highlights included a soulful rendition of “I Don’t Want To Talk About It,” (penned by former Crazy Horse guitarist Danny Whitten) and the monster jams on “Trouble” and “Blue Sunday”. The band boasts Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Spooner Oldham on keyboard, but the clear standout is its newest member, guitarist Kevin Holly. His touch on the Telecaster ranges from weepy and soulful to fretblazing blues rock.
The show had a humorous moment where the bus driver was brought onstage for the cover of “Dog House,” an outtake penned by her famous husband. Young rocked a cowbell reminiscent of Will Ferrell’s hilarious skit.
She has been married to Neil for 34 years and has sung in many of his bands. Judging from the crowd’s reaction, her emergence into the spotlight is most welcome.
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