Gary Clark Jr-LaVista-9.9.24

Gary Clark Jr at The Astro in LaVista, Nebraska on September 9, 2024

Photos and Review by The Pit Magazine Contributor, Bob DeHart Photography

I have had Gary Clark Jr on my radar for a long time. I have been following him since I first heard 2011’s “Bright Lights” EP. I was hooked from the beginning. If you have been following him, you know that coming into the show you are in for an eclectic night of music. There isn’t just one genre that was going to be covered. Which for me, is one of the great things about Gary Clark Jr.. It was a great night for an outdoor show at the Astro Amphitheater. Perfect weather to go along with an amazing show.

Gary Clark Jr has quickly established himself as one of the best guitarist out there right now. He has drawn comparisons from Hendrix to Clapton. Definitely not bad names to in the same conversation with. And let me say, on this night, he did not disappoint. He was everything I expected plus more. Sometimes you just have to sit back and enjoy the greatness that is before you. That’s exactly what I did. I did use my phone to video a small clip to send to my brother, I had to rub it in a little as to the greatness he was missing out on. Otherwise, I left my phone in my pocket and just enjoyed being in the moment. The setlist was a great mix of new and old, including the title track of his new album :JPEG RAW”. A highlight was the song he recorded with Stevie Wonder, “What About The Children”. Since Mr. Wonder was not in attendance, Gary did the lead vocals himself.

The backing band was top notch of course. All very accomplished musicians in their own right. Would you expect anything less? The show was a great emotional journey finishing with having opening act Grace Bowers join him on stage for the finale playing “Don’t Owe You a Thang”. An amazing way to finish the night. Gary Clark Jr. was well worth the wait to see. I had very high expectations and they were easily exceeded.