What a difference just a handful of years makes. The last time I saw Black Pumas perform was on the heels of their self-titled debut. The single, “Colors” was all over the radio, lifting them into the spotlight. Things were moving quickly. Grammy nominations followed as did pressure for a follow up, and then the duo hit the brakes.
But last summer they came roaring back with their sophomore record, Chronicles of a Diamond (on ATO Records). And just like that the Texas-based duo of Eric Burton (vocal/guitar) and Adrian Quesada (guitar) were back.
Black Pumas feel like they’ve been around for decades, but in reality, they met in 2017. Steeped in the sounds of Marvin Gaye and Al Green, Black Pumas create a groove that’s undeniably catching. But it’s their live show that becomes another thing entirely, as seen recently at Wolf Trap.
As the band walked onto the smokey stage on July 28, things kicked into gear right away with “Fire” from their first record. And right from that moment it was clear this was going to be a high-energy production as Eric Burton walked to the edge of the stage, reaching out and shaking hands with fans in the front rows.
Like a conductor, Burton played the crowd by having everyone singing along to “Know You Better,” a perfect example of a classic soul song that would have been at home on the radio in the early 1970s.
It was hard not to be drawn in by what was happening on stage — and off — as Burton again went into the aisles and around to sing with concert goers. At one point Burton, singing “I’m Ready,” danced on the steps and back unto the stage.
Watch the official music video for “Ice Cream (Pay Phone)” by Black Pumas on YouTube:
“This one reminds me to heed to the voices of my angels,” Burton told the crowd before sliding into “Angel” from Chronicles. “So I hope you’re encouraged to do the same.”
But the slow songs were the exception Sunday night as danceable grooves like “Sauvignon” morphed into the single “Ice Cream (Pay Phone).”
While Burton’s high note that started off “More Than a Love Song” seemed impossible, Adrian Quesada looked like the king of cool as he played. But it was their breakout hit, “Colors” that got things really cooking. As the song started slow, when it hit the chorus things just took off as Burton took to the guitar.
As things wound down, Eric Burton came out solo to perform the Tracy Chapman hit “Fast Car” before being joined by the rest of the band for the encore.
It’s a nice surprise to see a band that really seems to strive to connect with fans — making it an experience that we won’t forget. Black Pumas continue their tour through the Fall.
Here are more photos of Black Pumas performing at Wolf Trap on July 28, 2024. All photos copyright and courtesy of David LaMason.
