Concert Court: Patson @ Tidballs

Published 1:57 pm Thursday, January 12, 2012

patson

I don’t think I’ve seen a one-man band in any genre of music since I was a kid. It seems to be a dying art form. Sure, we see singer-songwriters get out there and put themselves in the spotlight, but that’s usually their voice and their instrument (singular). If anything, at a minimum, crosses the line into one-man band territory I’d say it’s a performer who provides their own drumming along with another instrument and vocals. And you certainly need a band to play hard rock, don’t you? Well, if you’re as curious as I was to see someone pull that off, your wait is over. Go see Patson.

With a set of electric drums that certainly has a home-made look to them, a drumstick in the right hand, and playing guitar with the left hand, Patson made his way through as the opening act at Tidballs. He’s got a bass drum he plays with his foot, three more up top he plays with the stick, cymbals, and a funky decorated stand that supports it all. How does he do this? Well, he often hits his drums on the down-strum of the guitar, plays what looks like primarily bar cords with the left hand, sings at the same time, and let’s not forget, has that foot working the pedal of the bass drum. I’m exhausted just writing about it. And oh yeah, occasionally he maneuvers a pick into that right hand to play a wee bit of lead.

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So what’s it all sound like? Well, it’s pretty interesting. I believe the songs were all original (he’s a writer too). Each musical element is kind of basic. The guitar is primarily basic rhythm, his drumming will not remind you of Keith Moon (although he’s been a drummer in several bands), the vocals come through a heavy reverb, and the lead, as I said, is very minimal. But put it all together, with a little passion thrown in for good measure, and he’s got a sound. There were a few heads bobbing up and down in the audience to the beat, and some folks were mouthing the words to his tunes, so he has a following. I’m not sure he could command a room as a main act on a Friday or Saturday night, but as an opener he sure gets things going. Keeping in mind he’s up there by himself, it’s quite impressive.

You can look up Patson (Patrick Richardson) on Facebook or go to www.patson43.com for a little more info. Then go check him out live.

Patson performed at Tidballs on 12/22/2011.

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About the author: Pennman boughthis first 45 at age nine and has been hooked on rock ever since. Hehas spent much of his disposable income on music, especially liveperformances. He writes reviews of the shows he sees and keeps akeen lookout for upcoming shows in or near Bowling Green. He has aBA in Communications, specializing in journalism, and has dabbledin music himself, both as a player and instructor. Find more ofPennman’s work at www.associatedcontent.com/user/165511/pennman.htmlor visit him at www.myspace.com/pennman_bgor www.facebook.com/pennman