Crystal Bay Casino played host to one of Northern California’s most beloved bluegrass-Americana bands on Friday, March 4: Poor Man’s Whiskey.
A self-described “high-octane hootenanny,” Poor Man’s Whiskey serves up a blend of American music styles, including bluegrass, Southern rock, and jam music.
The show kicked off with a set of Poor Man’s Whiskey standards, drawn from the group’s six studio albums. To wrap up the night, the group played its tribute to Paul Simon’s 1986 album “Graceland.” The record was certified five-times platinum in the United States and sold millions of copies worldwide.
The band is Josh Brough (banjo, keys, harmonica, vocals), Jason Beard (guitar, mandolin), Aspen Stevenson (bass), George Smeltz (drums, percussion) and David Noble (guitar and vocals).
Poor Man’s Whiskey is known for its extensive tribute interpretations, re-envisioning iconic albums such as Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side of the Moon,” with a decidedly grassy, twangy flavor. The band also plays tributes to Allman Brothers Band, as well as bluegrass hallmarks Kate Wolf and Old and in the Way.
The San Francisco band is a familiar group in Tahoe, playing at Peaks and Paws festival, Live at Lakeview, and many other venues around the lake over the years.
Poor Man’s Whiskey is a music festival staple in California and across the nation, taking the stage at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival, Wakarusa Festival, String Cheese’s Horning’s Hideout Festival, and many more. The group regularly sells out shows at the Fillmore San Francisco.
