Review: Sweet Water Warblers Capture Dogwood Crowd

By Ken DeLaat
Photo by Lil Delaat

The Dogwood Center tossed out an amazing array of entertainment in 2017 featuring a year-long lineup of talented and well received performers from a number of different genres.
If last weekend show is any indication the coming year should prove to not miss a step in continuing their lengthy winning streak.
When the trio of talent known as the  Sweet Water Warblers quietly ascended the Black Box stage their introduction came in the form of a stunning acapella tune that delivered a sensual symphony of sound.That opener drew the rapt attention of the crowd and the trio proceeded to hold onto it throughout an entertaining two set show.
Rachel Davis May Erlewine and Lindsay Lou are  three familiar names to any who have attended any of our state’s fine music festivals or caught them playing various venues with other bands or solo. Each a veteran of tours throughout the world together they form a supergroup  alliance of song and sound that is nearly flawless.
Ms. Davis has a set of pipes that can reach and early on while they were harmonizing in the gospel inspired tune ‘Up Above My Head’ she let it go and absolutely tore it up in a manner that would make Sister Rosetta Sharpe proud.
Lindsay Lou projects a playfulness in her music, with wandering vocals that can project a profusion  of emotion then shift to a skat-like rhythmic tune seamlessly.
May Erlewine is magnificent. Whether providing backup vocals harmonizing  or taking her turn at center mike she possess the kind of voice that draws in the listener and always always, leaves you wanting more.
Sweet Water Warblers have a compelling presence on stage. Their wit and wisdom works well with their presentation and their pre- break audience participation tune “It’s A Lie” revealed a humorous take on the falsehoods that teem from so many corners these days.
The second set kept folks riveted as they ventured from ballads to lovers laments to songs with messages and more.
To close it out the trio chose to take on “People Get Ready”  the Curtis Mayfield penned classic that has been covered by artists throughout the musical spectrum.
And believe me, they brought that train home.
Called for an encore the Warblers channeled another renowned Michigan singer songwriter Ms.Sally Rogers by giving a flawless three part harmony to her Circle of the Sun” song.
Gracious and classy in their departure  the three bestowed their gratitude to the audience but on this night the good fortunes were possessed by a crowded Black Box who witnessed to what turned out to be an outstanding  performance.