By Eileen Tilson
If you’re a country fan in Atlanta, then you might have heard that latest little twangness from Atlanta band Reluctant Saints‘ latest album Long Drive, on The Bull. Produced by Jonathan Beckner, the album features guest performances by Hammond B-3 legends Ike Stubblefield (Eric Clapton, Bonnie Raitt, Stevie Wonder) and Rev. Oliver Wells (Earth, Wind and Fire). The band recently had their CD release show at Peachtree Tavern, and is part of the Atlanta Motor Speedway’s AdvoCare 500 pre-race event on Sunday, September 4 as part of the “Fast Cars & Guitars” Labor Day weekend extravaganza, featuring headliner, Lynyrd Skynyrd. We chatted with RS’ Brian Cameron as part of our 5GB series before the big race.
What is the the first gig you ever went to?
Don’t remember. Was so long ago. First one I booked was a New Year’s Eve party in a church in ’95. I booked the gig, then handed my brother a bass and said, “You’ve got a gig in three days, can you do it?” Haha! He did and he has ever since.
Best gig you have ever played/performed at?
Not sure what you mean by best, but my “best gig ever” was my moms 50th birthday party. I played unplugged with just my brother and my sister (she sings). It was a great gig. Better than any other gig.
Best gig you’ve ever been to?
I’ve seen a lot of good shows. There are a few that stand out. Collective Soul at Music Midtown in ’99, I think. When they played Crazy Train. Sara Brightman on the La Luna tour, and Black Label Society at the Masquerade in Atlanta. All very different, but all very good. I think the best show I’ve been to though was Jimmy Buffett in an amphitheater. Big sound, great songs, and interacting with the crowd. Everybody is just there having a good time – band, crowd, everybody. It’s just one big happy family, and I dig that.
What is the gig you would most like to play?
I’d really like to play The Fox in Atlanta and do it acoustic with Reluctant Saints. It’s an at home venue, and the thought of a very personal kind of performance in that room really excites me. We like the “sitting in the living room” vibe we get doin’ acoustic shows. I like that they are informal even when they are formal.
If you could put your dream lineup on a gig, who would it be?
It would be really cool to do something with Keith Urban. He’s a great songwriter, singer, and guitar player, and for the Saints to back him up could be a lot of fun. John Mayer would be another cool guest to have. But not just guitar players. To maybe have Dave Grohl do double drums with Gary or have Benmont Tench sit in on keys. I bet we could make a list with 100 people on it for all different reasons. Collaborations just make music better, in my opinion.
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