Austin City Limits Season 45 Episode 1
Austin City Limits
Season 45

Ep 1. Gary Clark Jr.

  • October 5, 2019
  •   (14)

Gary Clark Jr. takes the stage for the season 45 premiere of Austin City Limits, the longest running music program on television. The Texas-born musician has been making waves in the blues and rock world for over a decade, earning him comparisons to legends such as Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan.

Clark's performance at Austin City Limits showcases his unique blend of soulful blues and gritty rock 'n' roll. He opens the show with the high-energy "Bright Lights," a song that perfectly captures his raw and electrifying style. Clark's impressive guitar skills are on full display, as he effortlessly switches between distorted riffs and soulful melodies.

Throughout the set, Clark moves seamlessly between old favorites and newer material. He delivers a powerful rendition of "When My Train Pulls In," a song that has become a staple of his live shows. The slower pace of the tune allows Clark to showcase his soulful vocals, which are just as impressive as his guitar playing.

One of the highlights of the performance is "Pearl Cadillac," a song from Clark's latest album, This Land. The song has a nostalgic feel, with Clark's smooth vocals and shimmering guitar tones evoking memories of classic soul and R&B. Despite its retro sound, the song also has a modern twist, with lyrics that touch on issues such as social inequality and police brutality.

Clark also explores his blues roots with a cover of Elmore James's "The Sky Is Crying." The song is stripped down to its essentials, with Clark's powerful vocals and haunting slide guitar giving the tune a timeless quality. "Got To Get Up," another track from This Land, brings the tempo back up with its funky grooves and catchy chorus.

The set closes with "This Land," the title track from Clark's latest album. The song has been praised for its politically charged lyrics, which address issues such as racism and immigration. Clark's impassioned delivery gives the song an urgent feel, as if he's pleading with listeners to wake up and take action.

Throughout the performance, Clark is backed by a talented band that includes bassist Johnny Bradley, drummer Johnny Radelat, and keyboardist Jon Deas. The group's chemistry is palpable, as they effortlessly create a full and dynamic sound.

As always, Austin City Limits provides top-notch production values, with multiple cameras capturing every angle of the performance. The editing is seamless, with clever cuts and transitions that keep the show engaging from start to finish.

The Gary Clark Jr. episode of Austin City Limits is a must-watch for fans of blues and rock music. Clark is a dynamic performer who embodies the essence of Texas blues, and his set on Austin City Limits is a testament to his talent and charisma.

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Description
  • First Aired
    October 5, 2019
  • Language
    English