Asheville is the western mountain home of this magazine and, being just a couple hours south of where I live, a city I love to visit. I don’t get there nearly as often as I would like, so the place is always just a little a bit different each time I return.
So, in order to catch up on some of the city’s new hot spots, I figured I would get some inside perspective from The Freeway Revival, a roots rock quintet that calls Asheville home.
The Freeway Revival released Revolution Road, their first long player, earlier this month. Capturing the band’s inclination towards smart harmonies and jammy tendencies, along with the willingness to blend cello and pedal steel, the new record is evidence that The Freeway Revival should long be traveling roads around the country, sharing their take on rootsy Americana.
Kenny Crowley, bassist and singer for the band, was kind enough to recently handle some questions from me about some of the band’s favorite Asheville spots.
BRO – Favorite outdoor adventure?
KC – There is an epic series of water falls and swimming holes on a short hike off of Route 9 headed towards Lake Lure. We’re told it’s a local spot and we’re not supposed to tell about it, so you’ll just have to come hang with us and, if you’re lucky, we’ll take you there.
BRO – Favorite local brewery?
KC – Highland Brewing has our favorite beers in town. They’re all quality. It’s also a great place to catch a show.
BRO – Local band I might not know of but need to see ASAP?
KC – Dr. Bacon is a great local band that brings the heat, and we recently discovered Jangling Sparrows, whose musicianship and songwriting are phenomenal.
BRO – Best place to see a band live?
KC – In our opinion, Isis Music Hall has the best sounding room in town. It’s an excellent intimate place to see a show, the sound is great, and the food is amazing. As for outdoor venues, the stage at Pisgah Brewing in Black Mountain is always a great time.
BRO – Best breakfast in town?
KC – If you’ve got time to wait, Sunny Point Cafe has the best shrimp and grits of all time. Rise ‘n Shine Cafe is a great spot for a quick and quality diner breakfast.
BRO – Favorite record store?
KC – Harvest Records is the best. Not only do they have great records, CDs, and vintage cassette tapes, but they also refurbish and sell quality turntables, receivers, and speakers. You can also purchase advance tickets to most of the local shows here.
BRO – Favorite place to just disappear for a couple hours?
KC – Almost any trail along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is only about five minutes from home. Just slip right into the mountains for a quick serene hike to get the head right.
If you are headed to Asheville for the first time, or even if it is a return visit, Kenny has offered up a pretty solid hit list of places to visit. Check out the places he mentioned and maybe even add a few of your own for you next Western Carolina adventure.
You can catch The Freeway Revival next weekend in Richmond before dates around the Carolinas later in October. The band returns to Asheville on November 18th for their hometown record release show at Isis Music Hall.
For more info on the band, more show dates, and how you can find a copy of Revolution Road, check the band’s website.
