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12/05/2021

Never Come Down with Ben Larsen Band at Mississippi Studios on 12/3/21

By BRENT ANGELO // 

Never Come Down is a Bluegrass/Americana band based here in Portland. Never Come Down, which features Crystal Lariza (vocals), Joe Suskind (guitar), Brian Alley (banjo), Kaden Hurst (mandolin), and Ben Ticknor (bass) just played a show Mississippi Studios to celebrate the vinyl release of their 2nd album, Better Late Than Never.

Never Come Down were all smiles being back playing live on the Mississippi stage and fans packed the venue for the show that thankfully had Covid safety protocols in place to make the show a safer one. Never Come Down is strong in harmony and skilled musicianship. It was easy to see the chemistry the group has as played songs from their new album and their self-titled 2018 release. While the new music on record is recommended to check out, these songs really shine best in concert. The way the band interacts with each other, respects each other’s input really connected to the crowd. Most of the night saw the band huddled around their Myrtle Mic where the band’s connection was the strongest.

There are no big amps or big drums in this group, but their true power comes from their combined voices coming through that mic. There were some energetic, traditional bluegrass playing, but there were some tender moments as well. With the added layer of Crystal Lariza’s singing voice, that made for some memorable moments as well. On the song, “Sleepin’” for example, her singing voice was warm and brought comfort. The mix of high energy playing, laughter and fun in this band made for a great live music experience.

Never Come Down is a band built on friendship, talent, and lots of fun. Portland is proud to call them one of its own.

Never Come Down (official)
https://nevercomedownband.com/
Ben Larsen Band (opener)
http://benlarsenmusic.com/

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