Review of Southern Sisters’ Rock Music in Santa Barbara
The idea that women can’t rock as fiercely as men is outdated and invalid, especially given bands like the powerhouse sister duo Larkin Poe, who are actively disproving this notion. Their recent performance at the Arlington Theatre exemplified their ability to captivate and engage audiences with their saucy Southern energy and dynamic musicality.
From the moment they launched into their opening song “Nowhere Fast” from their latest album Bloom, Larkin Poe showcased their distinct blend of rockers, ballads, and bluegrass-infused interludes. Lead singer and guitarist Rebecca Lovell commanded the stage with her fervent vocals, while her sister Megan Lovell demonstrated her prowess on slide guitar, lap steel, and dobro.
Backed by a solid rhythm section and a versatile keyboardist/guitarist, Larkin Poe embodied a smart yet potent new Southern rock aesthetic that seamlessly blended rootsy grit with refined musical sensibilities. Their lyrics were thoughtful and introspective, adding depth to their electrifying performance.
The band, currently on tour to promote their new album Bloom, shared anecdotes with the audience about their journey as independent artists and their creative process. Rebecca Lovell alluded to the transformative experience of impending motherhood and reflected on how being a rock-and-roll singer can coexist harmoniously with motherhood.
Their setlist included tracks from their award-winning album Blood Harmony, such as “Summertime Sunset,” “Kick the Blues,” and “Southern Comfort.” The Lovell sisters treated the audience to a short acoustic set, featuring stripped-down renditions of their songs and a gender-fluid interpretation of John Denver’s “Thank God I’m a Country Boy.”
Transitioning seamlessly between acoustic ballads and swampy Southern rock anthems, Larkin Poe showcased their musical versatility and stage presence. The evening culminated in an encore performance of “Bloom Again,” an emotionally charged ballad that highlighted their signature harmonies and slide guitar prowess.
Overall, Larkin Poe’s performance at the Arlington Theatre was a potent blend of Saturday-night vigor and Sunday-morning tenderness. The Lovell sisters proved themselves to be formidable talents in the realm of Southern rock, challenging stereotypes and captivating audiences with their raw, authentic sound.