Annie and Rod Capps Band at The Whitney Garden Party

It has been a minute since we visited The Whitney. The last time was a Christmas dinner where we toured this iconic and historic building. This time around, the draw was the weekly Garden Party featuring the music of the Annie and Rod Capps band. Each week, within the lush green walls of The Whitney’s garden, local musicians share their craft as patrons enjoy beverages and a light meal.

Annie and Rod Capps Band

Tonight, the Whitney Garden Party featured the progressive Americana of the Annie and Rod Capps Band. Annie and Rod Capps offer a variety of sonic experiences ranging from a duo, trio, quartet, and the full band. Annie and Rod Capps form the nucleus on guitar and Annie on lead vocals. The band version expands the quartet, which includes Jason Dennie (mandolin/vocals) and Ozzie Andrews (bass), by adding drums. In this case, the rock solid Michael Shimmin (The Olllam).

Transforming Folk

Starting with the springy and contemplative “Mr. Crow” from their 2023 album Love & Rain, the Annie and Rod Capps band signaled to us a warm night of buoyant music. The addition of drums gives the music a bit of insistence, which paradoxically brightened their sound while enriching it. There is no doubt that everyone on the stage is a gifted musician. Every chord, every note, every lyric turning traditional folk music on its head. Transforming the ordinary into the sublime.

Lyrical Stories

What I came to realize as I listened to the songs of Annie and Rod Capps is the rich and insightful storytelling bound within the melodies. Songs such as “Old Spice & Patchouli” offer a fresh reflection. The lyrics offer touchstones that anyone can resonate with. The melodic and harmonic elements of the music allow the stories in the lyrics to dance in your mind. The power of great music is not only to entertain, but to heighten our awareness and perception. Sitting in the garden at the Whitney while the Annie and Rod Capps band performed, I felt enlightened and entertained. It was a delightful summer night in Detroit.

Become a Supporter!

We warmly invite you to join our Life In Michigan community. Your support is not just appreciated—it is essential. It enables us to continue sharing the unique and captivating stories that showcase Michigan in all its vibrant glory. Whether you buy us a beer, treat yourself to a snuggly warm hoodie, or provide ongoing support through Substack, every contribution helps enhance our mission.

If our content resonates with you, we encourage you to become ambassadors of our stories. Share our work on your social media or forward a link to someone who would appreciate it as much as you do. Your support, in any form, breathes life into our cause and keeps the spirit of Life in Michigan thriving.

Thank you for being a vital part of our community.

Annie and Rod Capps Band at The Whitney Garden Party