Photos by Kevin Martinico
Shane Smith & the Saints lit up Red Rocks with their second headlining show in as many years, marking a triumphant return to the iconic venue. The last time I saw them perform at Red Rocks, they were supporting Lucero in a subdued atmosphere dictated by COVID restrictions. It was a limited capacity, and limited frills show. Fast forward a few years, and they’ve transformed into a powerhouse act, selling out the venue with ease and delivering a performance that left the crowd on the fire on a cold spring night in Colorado.
Despite the cold temperatures, the amphitheater was packed from top to bottom, a testament to the band’s soaring popularity fueled by their association with the hit TV show Yellowstone. But this isn’t a band that’s just riding a TV fad; they are a talented bunch of musicians who you can’t help but root for. If it’s a TV show that drove their popularity, so be it, but it is the music and stage presence that will keep people coming around.
They wasted no time in showcasing their latest release, Norther, treating the audience to almost the entire album, but it was older favorites like “Dance the Night Away,” “Mountain Girl,” and “Cocaine Habit” that had the crowd on their feet, eager to soak in every note.
Halfway through the set, the band took a unique turn, utilizing the Red Rocks tunnel to ascend to the top of the soundboard for an intimate acoustic performance of “Quite Like You” and “Little Bird,” providing a serene interlude amidst the energetic atmosphere.
The surprises didn’t end there. Bringing back “Suzannah” after a five-year hiatus delighted long-time fans, while the duet with Hayes Carll on “Pancho and Lefty” showcased the band’s reverence for their openers (“my favorite songwriter of all time!). Later in the set, a cover of Don Henley’s “The Boys of Summer” was made even more memorable by the addition of 49 Winchester – who was also on the bill.
The stage was alive with pyrotechnics, and the audience was treated to stunning live drone footage of the venue on the big screens, adding another layer of spectacle to an already electrifying performance. As the night drew to a close, “All I See Is You” served as the perfect finale, leaving an impression on everyone fortunate enough to be there.
Shane Smith & the Saints have undeniably stepped up their game since their last Red Rocks appearance, solidifying their status as one of the most dynamic acts in the Country/Rock scene. With each song, they proved why they belong on that legendary stage, leaving no doubt that they’ll be welcomed back with open arms whenever they choose to return, even if it’s on a Tuesday night again.
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