You know those lists in every music magazine of live bands everyone should see before they die? If My Morning Jacket is not on the list, you can instantly discredit it.
If you, like me, have wondered what happened to the lost art of the guitar solo, look no further. Justin Timberlake can bring sexy back all he wants, but My Morning Jacket are bringing the solo back, and I'll take stellar musicianship over a flashy stage show any day of the week.
Even if you don't know a single song by the band, I promise you will not be disappointed. I will admit that I had very little prior knowledge of the band's material beforehand. I had seen a few TV performances, and a few clips from their live DVD that impressed me, but I mainly went as a favor to my brother. I know I usually preach that those in attendance should be familiar with the band they're going to see, but I give you my solemn promise that even if you don't know one single song anyone with an appreciation for superior musicianship will enjoy this show.
My Morning Jacket have the appearance of a hair metal band, the stage presence of a classic rock and roll band, and the sound of a psychedelic hippie jam band. Extended guitar jams are commonplace, and they even do that classic rock 'n' roller move where the guitarists stand facing each other or side by side, mimicking each other's movements as they rock out. Lead singer Jim James runs from stage left to stage right, sliding across the surface, jumping and kicking his feet up behind him, and sends his wild hair into a frenzy. It's a rock spectacle that everyone who loves music should experience.
When I reviewed the latest album from Detroit's best kept secret, The Silent Years, entitled The Globe, I said "The Silent Years are, as Spin Magazine suggests, simply one of the best bands in the country right now." Having attended their show at The Magic Stick in Detroit last night, that statement has only been solidified. 
