As he emerged from the eerie fog that coated the stage at the Highline Ballroom in Lower Chelsea, a rugged and fearless Michael Wayne Atha greeted perhaps the most eclectic mix of music fans ever present at the same show. In attendance was a combination of biker types, hip-hop fanatics, alternative rock enthusiasts, and just about everything in between. In other words, present were the perfect ingredients to make for one hell of a party on a cold and rainy Saturday night in Manhattan.

Atha, better known as Yelawolf, stood tall at center stage, covered in tattoos from head to toe and looking for trouble. Now touring the nation in support of his latest release Trial by Fire, Yelawolf is the definition of a brilliant individual changing the face of hip-hop as we know it. Born in Alabama and raised in various locations thereafter, the rapper has pushed relentlessly in recent years to create quality hip-hop records without hesitation. His previous effort, 2015’s Love Story, achieved critical acclaim for its unique spin on the genre. Defying the odds of what hip-hop means to many, and shaking things up quite simply because he can, Yelawolf has earned his stripes thanks to his gripping lyrics and equally compelling mixes.

Expectations for the live execution of hit songs from his discography were high. An hour and a half later, as the house lights turned on, it was safe to say these expectations were surpassed. The night saw an emphasis on older music with only a couple of tracks from Trial by Fire being brought to the stage. Authentic tales and firsthand experiences with whiskey, God, love, and more whiskey were told at lightning fast BPMs, sending those in attendance over the edge with excitement. The crowd sang, rapped, and danced along to familiar favorites such as show opener “Empty Bottles,” “Outer Space,” and “Till It’s Gone” to name a few.

Yelawolf’s impressive singing voice put the material in a league of its own, providing extra depth and flare. His three-piece band comprised of guitars and banjo, drums, and the world-famous DJ Klever never missed a beat. Their equally unfriendly appearances were apparent, sending shivers down the spines of onlookers from the get-go. The night came to a close as Yelawolf bid farewell and thanked New York for its warm embrace. A southerner who enjoys keeping his life and wellbeing close to the edge, he has perhaps just begun his takeover.

Yelawolf Tour Dates:

NOV 20 Paradise Rock Club Boston, MA

NOV 22 The Phoenix Concert Theatre Toronto, ON

NOV 24 The Fillmore Detroit, MI

NOV 28 House of Blues Cleveland, OH

NOV 29 House of Blues Chicago, IL

NOV 30 Newport Music Hall Columbus, OH

DEC 2 Skyway Theatre Minneapolis, MN

DEC 4 Wooly’s Des Moines, IA

DEC 5 Blue Moose Tap House Iowa City, IA

DEC 6 The Vogue Theatre Indianapolis, IN

DEC 7 Mercury Ballroom Louisville, KY

DEC 16 The Tivoli Brisbane Brisbane, QLD, Australia

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Show Review by Joe Koza, RockRevolt Journalist

Tags: love story