The Adams County sextet Honey on the Rocks played to two sold-out houses at the Gettysburg Community Theatre Saturday, delivering a polished, high-energy showcase of local musicianship at its finest.
Rooted in R&B, pop, and soul covers, the band draws from an artfully-curated setlist of standout classics ranging from the B52s to Valerie June. Included in the 2 pm setlist were “You Know I’m No Good” by Amy Winehouse; “Ode to Billie Joe” by Bobbie Gentry; “Chain of Fools” by Aretha Franklin; “Everyday People” by Sly and the Family Stone; Sam Cooke’s, “Bring It On Home to Me” and “Hard to Handle” by Otis Redding.
The band’s sound is crisp, and richly compelling. Drummer Jack Books kicks off each tune with a crisp count-in before settling into a tight syncopated groove. Book is joined by bassist Thomas Roux, whose clean, inventive, and articulate Fender lines lock in with precision, creating a rhythmic foundation that is irresistibly danceable.
The energy crests with lead vocalist Bevin Durant Fidler’s electrifying voice and violin solos. Punctuated harmonies from keyboardist Kristen Books add depth and texture to the vocal mix, with the two often sitting in the same register to create a lush, unified vocal blend.
Josh Fidler’s hollow-body electric guitar accompaniments are tasteful and expressive, providing both rhythmic support and melodic color. His solos are inventive and fluid without ever tipping into excess. On alto sax, Alex Turner contributes punchy background riffs that add another layer of energy to the mix.
Josh and Kristen also took turns singing leads.
The band took time in the first set to preview their own songs from their in-progress project “Up on This Mountain,” a music story inspired by the true story of Adams County resident Catherine (Kitty) Payne.
The unexpected costume changes in the second set helped make apparent the fun, comraderie, and generosity of the players. — a band clearly enjoying itself and bringing the audience along for the ride.
Photos by Jim Bargas
