BOB Profile: Ivan Neville and Dumpstaphunk
August 30, 2013
Le Petit comedy deals with Youth’s rebellion
August 30, 2013
If Jason Isbell played baseball, he’d be called a “four-tool player.” He’s a consummate songwriter, an excellent singer, a way-above-average guitar player and a stand-up guy. The BoB Fest should feel justly proud in landing such a talent. Isbell grew up very near Muscle Shoals, Ala. (And if that name doesn’t immediately conjure up scads of awesome musical references, then get busy with your re-education.). His grandparents were most influential with fostering his love and talent for music; musicians themselves, they exposed him to the art and created an environment where he could hone his chops.
His first break was joining the formidable southern rock juggernaut, the Drive-by Truckers, while they were on tour for their breakout album, “Southern Rock Opera.” He stayed for the next three albums, comprising one of the finest runs of any act in recent times. His marriage to the DBT’s bassist dissolved, as did his membership in the band.
His solo career has seen him grow in artistic terms as well as acclaim. Sometimes recording under his backing band’s moniker, the 400 Unit, sometimes not, Isbell has four sterling albums in his discography. His “Alabama Pines” won Best Song at the 2012 American Music Awards. His latest album, “Southeastern,” is garnering universal praise from critics and fans. His star is ascending, growing brighter by the day, and you see him up close and personal when he closes out BoB Fest’s Boudin Bayou stage.
