THE NATIVE HOWL Turned Sacramento’s Ace of Spades Upside Down
The infamous ZAKK SABBATH kicked off their Tour Forever / Forever Tour in Sacramento at Ace of Spades on December 5, 2023. The tour opens with supporting band THE NATIVE HOWL. I was lucky enough to get the opportunity to take pictures of THE NATIVE HOWL so I thought I would review the band as well. To summarize, THE NATIVE HOWL is a Sonic Journey. A meshing of several genres of music. A band that creates an ENTIRE experience for the audience.
THE NATIVE HOWL is known for their distinct fusion of bluegrass, rock, and metal. The band, hailing from Michigan, consists of four members, each with exceptional musical talents! JAKE SAWICKI's ability to get quick riffs from the banjo and then, within seconds, grab his guitar while playing the harmonica and singing is beyond impressive! Bassist MARK CHANDLER, makes it look easy to keep constant rhythm, culminating in all musical elements harmoniously melding together. ALEX HOLYCROSS, the lead vocalist, belts out every song with the passion of ten men! And he does so with a distinctive voice – it is gritty, gravely – while playing the guitar and making sure to use the entire stage (while barefoot!) to ensure everyone in the audience gets to see and interact with their show. I was also lucky enough to get a few good shots of drummer ZACH BOLLING! He hit that kit with so much precision and passion, he makes it look effortless to navigate through the different styles and tempos this band is known for.
The NATIVE HOWL has such…energy! I didn’t get a chance to chat with the band before going on stage, so I asked people in the crowd, “Have you heard THE NATIVE HOWL before?” “What’s your favorite song?” I found out two very important things: 1. The band has a fan base that’s willing to travel to see them play because they are known for great music and lively performances; and 2. “Thunderhead” seems to be a well-liked song of theirs.
It seems to me the band has a genuine love for their craft which allows the audience to be fully engulfed in this kaleidoscope of colorful musical genres woven together in heart-stopping, head-banging, foot-stomping song after song. When I am lucky enough to witness artists that have genuine enthusiasm for their craft, it makes my photos turn out better, brighter, and makes me love my craft so much more. So, if you see me dancing in the Pit (photo pit, that is), and I stop taking pictures for just a second to clap and holler, leave me be. I’m in my happy place. THE NATIVE HOWL has a new fan in me, 100 percent!
THE NATIVE HOWL is currently touring with the ah-maz-ing ZAKK SABBATH on their Tour Forever/Forever Tour tour. If they come to a town near you, try to make it. I mean, try really hard! Both bands were well worth the wait in the long line. And, hey, buy a t shirt or three and support the arts!
For upcoming tour dates with ZAKK SABBATH and access to THE NATIVE HOWLs music and merch, go here: The Native Howl!
Do it now! Support the arts!
