Tedeschi Trucks Band delivered a powerhouse performance at the Arizona Financial Theatre in Phoenix, reaffirming their status as one of the top must-see acts on the road. Sharing the bill with Whiskey Myers on a co-headlining tour, TTB opened the night with a set that not only thrilled longtime fans but also captivated first-time listeners.
“I didn’t know who they were, but I’m a fan now,” said Just Joe, a Phoenix local in the crowd.
You’ve heard it before, but it’s worth repeating: Susan Tedeschi is one of the most formidable talents in the blues; often compared to Bonnie Raitt, but fully in a league of her own. And Derek Trucks? Easily one of the most gifted guitarists on the planet. Together, they built a band most musicians only dream of.
With twelve members, this band isn’t just stacked with talent; it’s overflowing. Sure, it’s Derek and Susan’s vision at the core, but what makes the Tedeschi Trucks Band special is how generously they share the spotlight. Every player gets room to shine, and the result is a dynamic, full-spectrum sound that’s constantly evolving onstage.
The horn section features Kebbi Williams on sax, Ephraim Owens on trumpet, and Elizabeth Lea on trombone – a trio that shifts effortlessly from soulful swells to full-blown brass fire. Holding down the rhythm are dual drummers Isaac Eady and Tyler Greenwell, alongside bassist Brandon Boone. Gabe Dixon lays down keys with both precision and soul, and then there’s the vocal crew: Mike Mattison, Mark Rivers, and Alecia Chakour — each capable of leading a song or blending seamlessly into lush harmonies.
The chemistry between these musicians is tight, electric. This band moves like a single, well-oiled machine, and they hit the stage not to perform but command it.
The show kicked off with a few early tracks before Kebbi Williams stepped forward for a free-flowing sax solo that stretched a couple of minutes. His solo then melted into one of the band’s signature songs, “Midnight in Harlem,” a moment that truly locked in the crowd. And when Derek Trucks stepped into the spotlight, his slide guitar work reminded everyone (as if they needed reminding) why he’s considered one of the greatest to ever touch the instrument.
That solo, and the powerful finish that followed, brought the audience to their feet for one of many standing ovations. Next came a deeply moving moment. Susan dedicated the following song to the late Kofi Burbridge: a beloved, all-around musical force within the band and far beyond. With grace and emotion, she led the band into “Soul Sweet Song,” complete with its signature flute intro, honoring Kofi’s spirit in every note.
But the moment that stole the night, and the one I won’t forget anytime soon, came when Susan invited Mike Mattison to center stage for a cover of Prince’s “1999.” If that performance didn’t blow your socks off, nothing will. Their rendition was a perfect mix of celebration, musicianship, and pure fun.
Next up was “Bound for Glory,” another fan favorite. Susan’s vocals were front and center, captivating the room as she called out, “Can you feel it?” over and over; and the answer from the crowd was a resounding yes. If there were any doubts about why Susan Tedeschi stands at the top of the modern blues scene, they were put to rest with her knockout performance of “Angel from Montgomery” followed by a soulful take on “Sugaree,” the Jerry Garcia classic. Both songs earned her yet another well-deserved standing ovation.
The band closed out the night with a fiery rendition of “I Want to Take You Higher” by Sly and the Family Stone. No encore needed; that final blast of energy brought the house down and sent everyone home buzzing. A setlist that hit every note just right.
Setlist:
Don’t Let me Slide
Crazy Cryin
Devil Be Gone
Midnight In Harlem
Soul Sweet Song
Future Soul
Stand Back
1999
Bound For Glory
Angel From Montgomery
Sugaree
Sing A Simple Song
I Want to Take You Higher
