On Saturday Feb. 8th, Joey Harkum played an early show at Ophelia’s on Broadway in downtown Albany, just as the city braced for a snowstorm. The forecast called for 6-8 inches of snow, but that didn’t stop a small but mighty group from making their way to the intimate venue.
Mike Lashomb of Annie in the Water opened with a solo set. He had about forty-five minutes to play and made every second count. With a mix of humility, graciousness and energy, he treated the crowd to new material, experimenting with songs he had never performed live before. His unpolished, but heartfelt delivery won over the room and gave us all a glimpse of the future of his music.
Immediately after, Harkum took the stage. While the weather and smaller crowd might have seemed like a downer to some, the folks who braved the elements were in for a truly unforgettable experience. Harkum, a long-time favorite in the Eastern Americana scene, quickly captivated the room, effortlessly connecting with everyone in a way only he can.
The set began like any show, with a predetermined collection of songs, but it didn’t take long before the setlist was tossed to the wayside. Harkum invited the crowd to call out their favorite songs from his impressive catalog. The crowd eagerly shouted out requests and he delivered, diving deep into songs that weave tales of hope, heartache, healing, and the ever-complex journey between.
Even though the weather was absurdly cold and the threat of snow was beginning to ring true, his music seemed to keep the storm at bay. “Hold On” felt like a shield against the impending chaos outside, with the warmth of Harkum’s voice and the music carrying us through.
The highlight of the night was the “Whiskey Song.” It wasn’t just a song; it was a communal choir where everyone became part of the story. The audience, in unison, sang along as if they were gathered around a fire at a family reunion, exchanging memories and celebrating life’s highs and lows.
This performance was a reminder of why Americana music resonates so deeply with people—it’s a beacon of light in the darkness. A storm may have been brewing outside, but inside Ophelia’s, Joey Harkum’s music kept the brave one’s warm and connected, proving once again that good music can weather any storm.
