Hank Williams III Concert Review Louisville, KY -- September 20, 2002

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Hank III hit the stage ready to party a little at the Jim Beam sponsored Rock the Rackhouse concert in Louisville, KY on September 20. He was the first of two country acts and two rock bands that were scheduled to perform in this unique show. His thirty-minute set started at 7:15 pm and he was definitely living up to the Outlaw name. He hit the stage wearing a dark t-shirt with rolled up sleeves and a vest with spikes on the shoulders and a patch with a photo of the hemp plant proudly displayed on the front. His hair is shaved close in the front and then braided down the back, covered with a worn cowboy hat.

He has an eclectic mix of music and is equally comfortable singing a honky-tonk country tune or something hard-core punk rock. In between the two extremes, he belts out some great rockabilly tunes. Hank has the ability to change his sound to fit his mood, and doesn't seem to fit into any particular musical mold. He made no secret of how he feels about today's Nashville scene and changed some lyrics to a few songs to express his displeasure. The song that most likely describes his thoughts the best is called "Trashville." He tells the audience that they say he ain't country, but he doesn't care. He knows what he is, and he knows what he likes to do and he is going to do what he likes. His language is colorful, and there are no apologies.

Hank III's band really seem to enjoy what they are doing and are a great compliment to Hank. The guy on the stand-up bass really gets into the music, and it is fun just to watch him; and he also belts out a great rhythm while he is at it. Hank sailed through several songs off his latest album, Lovesick, Broke & Driftin' and some from his first album, Risin' Outlaw. To complete the nose-thumbing process at the so-called "country" mold, Hank finishes his set with a bang. The band scramble onstage after the last honky-tonk notes have wafted away and when the music starts for the next song there is a dramatic change of scenery. The "country" instruments have been put away and now there are the guitars and instruments to produce some drastically different music. Hank removes his hat, unbraids his hair and they are ready for some hard-core punk. They were making lots of major noise and true to the 'punk' style, Hank's hair was completely covering his face while he jammed on his guitar.

I'd have to say that a Hank Williams III show is not for the faint of heart, or for those with ears sensitive to some colorful language. However, if you enjoy someone who is extremely good at what they have chosen to do, then you will enjoy the show. Hank seems to be out to surprise everyone, and he is definitely not short-changed on talent.

Song-List:

• Smoke & Wine
• I Don't Know
• Poor Boy Blues
• Straight To Hell
• This Old Town
• If You Don't Like Hank Williams
• Trashville
• Dick in Dixie
• Tennessee Driver