Everette have built a reputation for blending soulful storytelling with high-energy musicianship, drawing on roots that stretch from Kentucky church halls to international festival stages. Lee Allcock caught up with the band as they reflect on their early influences, formative live experiences, and speak about what fans can expect from their upcoming UK tour.
You grew up singing in church in Shepherdsville, Kentucky. How did those early experiences shape the emotional style and energy you bring to Everette today?
The church I grew up in was incredibly expressive, especially during the music portion of the service. The sanctuary was filled with loud singing, crashing instruments, and people shouting with joy. Tambourines were even kept in the backs of the pews for anyone to grab and shake freely, regardless of rhythm or skill level. ‘Make a joyful noise’ was the motto. Even though I can be a little more reserved than some of those churchgoers were back then, that spirit is still in my bones, and it finds its way into my shows today – especially the ‘make a joyful noise’ part.
Before moving to Nashville, you spent years playing bars around Bowling Green while studying at Western Kentucky University. What did those tough club gigs teach you about performing and connecting with a crowd?
Honestly, those club gigs were great. I’ve got a lot of amazing memories of breaking out of my shell, jamming and just being free and partying with people in Bowling Green. That said, earning the attention and respect of a loud, rowdy and often drunk crowd isn’t easy. You learn pretty quickly to play loud and confident – to let the crowd know you’re there to have a good time right alongside them. I think connecting with a crowd is the goal for every artist, and the reason we show up in the first place. The band becomes the leader of the party, so you have to take people on a ride. It’s taken me years to get better at that, and I’m still learning every day, but it remains one of my favourite challenges in the business. Once you hook a crowd and feel that connection lock in, there’s nothing else quite like it.
The name Everette was inspired by O Brother, Where Art Thou?. What was it about that film and George Clooney’s character that stuck with you enough to name the band after it?
To be honest, when Everette first started, we couldn’t come up with a name. I’d seen that film a million times, and something about it always resonated with me – the sepia-toned look, the humour and, of course, the incredible soundtrack. George Clooney’s character, Everett, came to mind, and for some reason the name just felt right to us. Our team liked it too, so we decided to run with it. It also didn’t hurt that Clooney is from Kentucky like myself, which felt like the icing on the cake.
Your sound blends bluegrass influences with rock ’n’ roll grit. How would you describe the Everette sound to someone hearing the band for the first time?
I’ve always described it as ‘Back Porch Rock ’n’ Roll’ – a little laid-back storytelling at times, mixed with the kind of jamming that’ll get your body moving and your beer in the air. The sound has evolved over the years, but I still feel like that description holds up pretty well.
You’re heading to York for a show at Vinyl Café on Wednesday 5th August as part of your first UK headline tour. What can fans expect from the set? And how excited are you to play York for the first time?
I’ve heard about Vinyl Cafe from a few artist friends who’ve played there, and they’ve had nothing but amazing things to say about it. I’m really excited for it to be part of this run. With its rich history, I’ve always wanted to explore York, and I’m hoping I’ll have enough time while I’m there to do just that. As for the set, I’d say it’ll be an intimate night of storytelling, sing-a-longs and a few impromptu jams. I’ve got a lot of new songs, and there’s a good chance I’ll try out a handful of them too. I’m really looking forward to it.
Tickets for Everette’s York date, priced at £18.00 in advance, are available at fixr.co.
