Holidays at the Harvester with The Tiger Beats and Anthony Nguyen
12.02.2023 - Spirits were not dampened as the afternoon rain gave way to a demure backdrop that was slightly humid, reflections of the Christmas lights on the puddles in the streets of West Walnut. Saturday evening at the Harvester, a magical atmosphere filled the air. The facility was adorned with an enchanting display of Christmas lights, trees and poinsettias illuminating the night with a kaleidoscope of colors. The ambiance was alive with the soulful melodies of blues and jazz music, captivating the hearts of all who were present.
As guests mingled and reveled in the holiday spirit, the air was filled with laughter and joy. The sound of clinking glasses and the aroma of expertly crafted cocktails wafted through the room, adding to the sense of celebration. Despite the slightly cloudy sky, the atmosphere remained vibrant and festive.
The Harvester truly embodied the essence of the holiday season, with its warm and inviting atmosphere. The combination of twinkling lights, soul-stirring music, and the company of friends and loved ones created a sense of togetherness and merriment that was truly unforgettable.
As the evening unfolded, it became clear that the Harvester was more than just a facility; it was a haven of holiday cheer and a sanctuary for those seeking respite from the outside world. The magic of the night enveloped everyone, transporting them to a place where worries melted away and the spirit of the season reigned supreme.
Last night at the Harvester, we were fortunate enough to witness the awe-inspiring talent of a musician who truly defied expectations. Anthony Nguyen quite simply took our breath away. Anthony has performed many times both at The Burlap Room and The Harvester, but this was the first time as a solo act. With his ability to write his own music, play multiple instruments, and create a full band sound using only his guitar and a looping pedal, he left us speechless.
As he took the stage, his presence commanded attention. With a saxophone mounted to a microphone stand and his guitar slung over his shoulder, he exuded a contagious energy that electrified the room. From the very first note, it was clear that we were in for an unforgettable experience. Anthony’s interpretation of Lindsey Buckingham’s “Big Love” was on point and his skill as a guitarist shown a top-notch performer with extended fills and the loop keeping the beat…impressive!
With each strum of his guitar, he skillfully looped and layered intricate rhythms, creating a mesmerizing beat that reverberated through the venue. It was as if he had summoned an entire band to accompany him, effortlessly transitioning between guitar, drums, and bass with the flick of a switch.
But it wasn't just his technical prowess that left us in awe. It was the sheer passion and energy he poured into every performance. As he played, his body moved with an intensity that was infectious. He poured his heart and soul into each note, captivating us with his raw emotion and leaving us breathless. For a solid 90 minutes, he held us captive, taking us on a musical journey that transcended genres and expectations. His ability to seamlessly blend different instruments and styles showcased his versatility and creativity as a musician. By the end of the set, the room was buzzing with excitement and admiration. We were left in awe of the sheer talent and dedication this musician possessed. He had not only entertained us but had also pushed the boundaries of what is possible in music. In a world where it's easy to become jaded by the familiar, this musician reminded us of the power of innovation and the limitless potential of the human spirit. His performance was a testament to the transformative power of music
The Tiger Beats are incredibly skilled musicians and once we booked them for Holidays at The Harvester, I have proselytized that this will be and was the most prolific performance we have hosted at The Harvester: showmanship, professionalism, classy, and wildly entertaining. Raw talent yes, skilled craftsmen, for sure!!...with a blue-collar mentality with a refined touch on the R & B Classics of the 1960’s era of blues and boogie rock. Let’s observe the rhythm section of this powerful band: Jason Smay @jsmay101 on the drum kit and Dave Jacque on electric bass.
Frank Sinatra once commented to Chris Botti “one thing that I have learned in show business, you better have a master beat keeper” and The Tiger Beats have that very dude and that would be Mr. Jason Smay. Jason hails from Webster, New York, and like his other band mates, has quite the resume. He is also the father of guitar player McKinnley James. Jason has toured and recorded with JD Mcpherson, Los Straitjackets, Bo Diddley, Wanda Jackson, The Hi Risers, Dave Alvin, and Tom Petty Guitarist Mike Campbell, and is endorsed by Dream Cymbals.
Dave Jacque, originally from outside of Boston, toured with John Prine for twenty-five years. In addition to his work with John, Dave has toured with Emmylou Harris, Buddy Miller, Daddy, Iris Dement, Steve Forbert, Patty Griffin, Lucinida Williams, Greg Brown, Rodney Crowell, Kevin Gordon, Jason Wilber, Jimmy Rankin, Jeff Black, Greg Trooper, Todd Snider and many more. Consummate professional who has a DeKalb County connection. His uncle is Bille Erdman, the St. Christopher of Smithville, so with that once again made the point and emphasis on how connected this area is to the rest of the planet.
McKinley James came to The Burlap Room with the Tiger Beats back in March 2021 and then again as The McKinley James Band in summer of 2022. We were so impressed that we invited them back only this time as an updated version of The Tiger Beats to kick off the Holidays at The Harvester and what a treat! McKinley is the offspring of the band’s drummer Jason Smay and the two them pal around the countryside riding motorcycles and playing retro R &B. I am a little jealous. McKinley was born in Rochester, NY, but like his dad now calls Hendersonville home.
This band is a serious mix of Motown soul and blues-based guitar playing. It doesn't sound like the type of blues you get from traditional purveyors of the genre, but instead from a guitarist that understands chord theory so well that you could swear you're hearing a horn section sometimes. He’s 21 years old! One of his records, Still Standing By (2021) was produced by The Black Keys' Dan Auerbach at his Easy Eye Studio in Nashville. It's soul music with a dash of blue growl all written by McKinley himself with Patrick Sweany on a few of the sets on the record. Influenced by a Chuck Berry style of patten double stops that were written to take the place of horns he didn't have either. Add Tom Petty’s ghost and there you have it, theory and craft that went from a keyboard to guitar. We were all blown away last night.
How about the effervescent Mr Patrick Sweany, lead man for The Tiger Beats. Patrick first gained prominence in the 1990’s with his own band that included baritone guitarist Dan Auerbach from The Black Keys. In fact, Dan has produced two of Patrick’s albums. Endorsed by Fender Guitars, Patrick is a seasoned road veteran who has played coast to coast and around the world. Introspection and Reflection are recurring themes particularly in the Post Pandemic Era of the 21st Century. New chapters of life and pursuits however, there is one consistent and that is the MUSIC and for us here at The Harvester we were fed last night. We were treated to an extraordinary performance by a blues musician who possessed an old school groove that transported us to another era. With every note, he breathed life into the room, lifting our spirits and nourishing our souls. The raw emotion in this band captivated us and by all accounts seemed to transform into a blues club from decades past. The rhythm section kept the beat with an infectious energy, perfectly complementing Patrick and McKinley as they played. The audience was entranced, swaying to the music, and losing themselves in the timeless sound. It was a testament to the power of music to heal, to uplift, and to connect us all. In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, the power of music to transcend time and touch our souls….the performance was a true gift, an experience that will forever be etched in our memories and continue to inspire us. In fact, one of the patrons commented that The Tiger Beats are “the best thing this side of heaven.“
None of us wanted to leave but as we stepped outside, we had renewed appreciation for the blues and how privileged we are to be in their presence. Right here in Smithville, TN, In the end, the evening at the Harvester was a testament to the power of music, lights, and the joyous energy that comes with the holiday season. It was a night that will be cherished in the memories of all who were fortunate enough to experience it, a night where the magic of Christmas came alive in every note, every sip, and every smile.
The Harvester is quickly becoming the crossroad for many varieties of music and entertainment, and you, too, can host an event here throughout the year. Weddings, Banquets, Quinceañeras, Business Meetings, Retreats, Birthdays, Retirement Parties, Company Christmas Parties, and this list goes on. Inquire today and see if your date is available!
Izzie from Snapdragon made an appearance in The Yella’ Dog Lounge and YaYa’s Food Truck provided fabulous soul food all afternoon, right up till shut down at 9:15PM. Thanks to all the security staff, bar tenders, sound engineers, and of course our patrons. Please come back and tell the world that Historic Downtown Smithville, TN, is open and The Harvester is here to handle all your event space needs.
Up next is an Advent Service at the Harvester on Wednesday, 12/13, free and open to the public - all ages welcome! Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet with Nashville Shakespeare Festival Tour takes over the Flatwoods Stage for an intimate theatrical performance on Thursday, 1/18, followed by Bob Marley Tribute with Austin Grimm and full band at the Harvester on Friday, 2/2. Stay up-to-date with all the events in the Bert Driver Network (Nursery, Burlap Room, and the Harvester) by signing up for our ‘The Local Vibe’ Newsletter - released the first Tuesday of the month, straight to your inbox!
Host your next event at the Harvester! Corporate events and parties, weddings, receptions, graduations, baby showers, or whatever you’re celebrating, we can host it! Contact us for more information. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year 2024!
