As the frontman of 311, a band that already defies genres, Nick Hexum’s ascension into Bluegrass and Americana shouldn’t be a total shock. Hexum’s first foray into side projects began with the jazz-infused The Nick Hexum Quintet in 2013 which garnered praise through an album release and subsequent tour. Hexum also previously teamed up with George Clanton, a singer/songwriter in the electronic genre, so it’s no surprise that he’d jump into yet another music style for his latest album titled Phases of Hope and Hollow.

Nashville’s City Winery was a prime location to showcase this project given its roots, and what a night it was on April 4th. For the Nothing But The Truth Tour, Hexum is backed by the rising and wildly talented musicians in Water Tower. The group consists of frontman Kenny Feinstein, with members Taylor Estes, Jesse Blue Eads, Tommy Drinkard, and John Seltzer all on various instruments — sometimes even trading throughout the show. Water Tower opened the show sans Hexum, and proved why they’re a rising powerhouse. Their energy was magnetic and their skill as musicians was on full display with every single song, cover or original. Special guests Hillary Klug and Ruby Leigh joined the set for a song each — a special treat solely for the Music City show.

Water Tower’s double duty didn’t slow them down; they were just as lively and concise during Hexum’s set as they were during their own. The headlining setlist included songs from Phases of Hope and Hollow as well as 311 favorites “Flowing”, “Champagne”, and “Amber” reworked in a bluegrass style. A newer addition to their set, and one of my personal favorites, was a cover of the Turnstile song “Blue By You” which Hexum dedicated to Turnstile frontman Brendan Yates and his father.

The show was a wonderful display of the complex musicianship of Nick Hexum, and a great introduction to those who weren’t already familiar with the eclectic showmanship of the punk rock bluegrass boys in Water Tower. The crowd’s energy was palpable, and there was no hesitation to participate when encouraged.

The Nothing But The Truth Tour has concluded but you can catch 311 on the road this summer with Dirty Heads, Atmosphere, Ocean Alley, and Rome. Water Tower has upcoming shows in California, as well as a spot at Delfest in Cumberland, MD with Sierra Ferrell.

[please reach out to Stephanie Andrews at suncomethroughphoto@gmail.com for photo/review inquiries]

Nick Hexum & Water Tower: Nothing But The Truth Tour