The Mother Hips and Paul McDonald

I went to see The Mother Hips at the Sweetwater Music Hall recently and was pleasantly surprised by their relaxing sound and fun and fulfilling performance. The band from San Francisco cover a variety of rock sub genres from indie to alternative and even folk.

Their sound is pleasing and easy going, it's feel good music designed for all to enjoy. Don't let the rock genre put you off, their softer than you would think and make for a great night out. They are not too heavy and are very enjoyable. Their songs are radio friendly, easy for you to sing along to and easy for you to pick. You will be singing and dancing along with delight. The main man on vocals, Tim is cheeky, happy and very fun. He interacts with the audience and makes it an enjoyable experience.

The Mother Hips have been around since the 90s but in my opinion this is the time to see them. They performed my favourite songs of their "White Falcon Fuzz" and "Precious Opal" with character, they did not disappoint.

Since earning mass recognition for his time on American Idol, Paul McDonald has worked to further a solo career that is more exciting than his collection of Elton John-esque, rose-embroidered, sequined suits.
But Paul McDonald is anything but flashy. In fact, the singer-songwriter’s humble spirit and his Southern roots make for intimate concerts that truly showcase his talent without the grandeur evident in so many of today’s artists.
Paul McDonald performing can be classified somewhere between “baby deer learning to walk on ice” and “confused drunk stumbling home from the bar,” but it adds to the charm and quirkiness of the show itself. He can’t help that he’s tall and lanky and not quite sure what to do with his limbs. Regardless, McDonald’s lyrics are genuine and personal, and the way he delivers them creates a show that is entertaining for reasons besides his dancing alone. He allows himself to be vulnerable in front of the crowd and focuses solely on delivering his message through song. McDonald isn't a rockstar, but he’s a testament to the notion that people who create music simply for the sake of creating music still exist. Expect a hearty mix of both slower, stripped-back songs and those that are simply hoedown-worthy. These in addition to McDonald’s unique raspy tenor create a unique concert experience sure to restore your faith in the often-overlooked realm of singer-songwriters.