Poverty is Real - Even in Music City

Review by: Rachel Wilson
Photo credit: Dana Brim | Vinyl Theif photo appears courtesy of Madison Natarajan |
Wild Cub photo appears courtesy of Vinyl Theif

Tennessee's residents have a famed past when it comes to giving their all - whether it's fighting against the British, or helping the less fortunate in its communities.

On Friday November 30th, and Saturday December 1st, national nonprofit Poverty Is Real hosted a weekend chock full of music in Nashville, Tennessee, a worldwide musical mecca.  Right off the heels of incredible sold-out shows at the Bluebird Cafe, Poverty Is Real kicked off an incredible night of music on Elliston Place, at the much-loved venue Exit/In.

Nashvillians flocked to the show and packed it out, raising money for local charity, Open Table Nashville.  The charity, which works side by side with the city's homeless and impoverished population, helps reestablish citizens, and provides a safe, nurturing environment for at-risk families and individuals.

Nashville artists Casa Castile (psychedelic, Nashville pop), Afterlife Parade (gritty, aggressive, indie rock), Foreign Fields (resonating introspection, much like Bon Iver, but better), Vinyl Thief (self described electro-rock), and Wild Cub (electronic sounds of the 80s mixed with irresistible guitar) all donated their time and talents for the evening. When asked why use music to fund the cure for poverty, Poverty is Real founder and president, Mike Killeen says "music is a powerful, emotional force that can change the world."

Afterlife Parade

Music delivered by this five band line up changed throughout the night with each new set bringing a bigger crowd and plenty of sonic variety to meet most taste.

Foreign Fields

Along with strings the bands brought dynamic synth tones and great harmony vocals.

Vinyl Thief

Riff rich guitars were in no shortage for the nights headliner and seem to offer exactly what Nashville needed to fully embrace this event!

Wild Cub

Judging from the success of the first Poverty is Real show in Music City, and just like Paul and John said, we'll get by with a little help from our friends.  With music events like those organized by Poverty Is Real, it's clear that music is a universal language of love, and it truly can change the world.