Delta Spirit and Palm Palm Burn Down the House

J. Roddy Walston of Palm Palm performing at The Olympic Venue, photo by April Massey

The old tavern walls of Boise’s Olympic Venue were set ablaze Tuesday night with a rough and ready flame. With the help of Palm Palm, Delta Spirit transformed what could have been a sleepy, mid-week gig into a raucous evening at the rock show.

 The small but energetic crowd was caught off guard by opening act, Palm Palm. The Virginia-based foursome, led by J. Roddy Walston, came in howling like a ghost from the bayou. Causing a slight rush to the stage, the band quickly won the audience over with their screeching guitar riffs and hard-hitting, blues-driven piano. Dawning brightly patterned shirts, sunglasses, and face glitter, Palm Palm was absolutely all in, delivering a hot and heavy set that erupted with pure rock n’ roll vibes.

Matthew Vasquez of Delta Spirit performing at The Olympic Venue, photo by April Massey

Not to be outdone, headliner, Delta Spirit, upped the ante with their soulful, southern-inspired sound that masterfully walks the line between rowdy and introspective. Currently touring their album, One Is One, set to release May 30th, the California quintet has not been seen in the gem state since last year when they opened for Nathanial Rateliff at the Ford Idaho Center. The Olympic’s intimate setting prompted interactions between the band and their most dedicated fans. With audience members shouting out requests, clapping and stomping along to the beat, and participating in some playful call and response, Delta Spirit delivered a formidable performance, giving the crowd the kind of Tuesday night they undoubtedly have not had since second semester in the freshman dorms.

Delta Spirit performing at The Olympic Venue, Photo by April Massey