The Oak Ridge Boys “Shine the Light” At Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts

Leigh Ann Rassler July 22, 2018 Feature, Fleming Island, Music, On Stage, Orange Park

For 75 years, the music of The Oak Ridge Boys has delighted audiences around the world. Founded in 1943 as the Oak Ridge Quartet, the current lineup has been together since 1973. The quartet consisting of Duane Allen (lead), William Lee Golden (baritone), Joe Bonsall (tenor) and Richard Sterban (bass) continue to record and tour with the Mighty Oaks Band.

I grew up listening to their legendary blend of gospel, blues, and country rock, but never had a chance to see them live until now. Why did I wait so long?

The performance opened with a witty introduction by Darrick Kinslow, the band’s road manager. He set the stage for a Friday night of toe-tapping fun in the impressive Thrasher-Horne Center. Duane Allen’s energy was contagious. From the moment he came on stage until the last encore 95 minutes later, he was a ball of fire. Their sound and lyrics are pure and easy to listen to. The instruments, vocals and sound levels were effortlessly balanced.

The stage, lighting and backdrop created a wonderful atmosphere and enhanced the overall live show. By the end of the night, the crowd was completely into the performance. They were having the time of their singing, clapping and interacting with the group.

The Oak Ridge Boys covered their hits, but also introduced us to songs from their new album called 17^th Avenue Revival. Duane described it as rock meets gospel. I especially loved the ballad called A Brand New Star.

I did not see an empty seat in the house and the parking lot was at or near capacity. The sold out show reaffirms that the Thrasher-Horne Center is a prestigious venue in Northeast Florida. They continue to bring in quality talent over and over again. I look forward to visiting this jewel in the heart of Clay County and encourage residents from the surrounding communities to make plans to attend a show this year.

In addition to the perfect acoustics, comfortable seating with fantastic views of the stage, there is also FREE parking. This particular night, the Center also had food trucks on site and made it a night out versus just a concert. Kudos!!

If you did not attend Friday’s performance, you missed one of the best live concerts I have ever attended. ~ Leigh Ann Rassler

For tickets, visit www.thcenter.org

The 2018 Season has 10 more shows lined up through January 2019, including Hippiefest 2018, Howie Mandel Live, Lightwire Theater presents The Ugly Duckling, The Naked Magicians, Molly Hatchet 40^th Anniversary Tour, Diavolo, Voctave: An A Cappella Holiday and Something Rotten.

Setlist