Bek and the Starlight Revue
Pikeville, Kentucky, United States | Established. Jan 01, 2017 | SELF
Music
Press
Bek and The Starlight Revue bring ginormous sounds with
their brand-new album, “Bloom”. Hailing from Pikeville, KY,
Bek and The Starlight Revue is a soulful, groovy, jam band with
hints of melodic rock n roll! Bek is super energetic on her vocal
work, making her start writing and performing songs in a
Methodist Church in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.
After listening to “Bloom” all the way through, I was in a total
“WOW” factor! “Bloom” is a magnificent album from start to
finish, and furthermore, it was my first experience with Bek and
The Starlight Revue. After listening to “Bloom”, this won’t be
my last experience!”
“Bloom” offers a lot of flavors in this masterpiece of an album!
Chilling guitar solos, amazing melodic melodies, Bek’s
powerful and beautiful voice, the greatness of soul mixed with
hints of rhythm and blues all blended with Appalachian rock n
roll! “Gyspy Heart” caught my attention quick! Being one of the
slower tracks on the album, doesn’t mean that it won’t reach out
of your device, grab your heart and pull it straight out of your
chest! This track speaks to the soul, having such an incredible
slide guitar part, making me think of the great Allman Brothers,
and putting me in a trance to where I’m lost in the song, not
knowing if I will ever return or not. After hearing this, I believe
it truly shows the amazingness behind the band that is, Bek and
The Starlight Revue. The starting track, “California”, makes you
have the mindset of being in Los Angeles in the 1960s. The
amazing rhythm of the song, combining with the superb guitar
work, will make your ears scream “THANK YOU!”. Not to
mention, the brilliance of “Without A Crowd”, makes the hair
on your neck stand up! I can’t get over how tremendous this
track is, well, all of them are tremendous! I can’t leave out the
conclusion of the album, “Kentucky”. Being my favorite song
on “Bloom”, this song hits home for me. I’ve lived in Kentucky
all my life, enjoying the scenery of the hills for 24 years. Bek
explains all of that in this song. She talks about being in
Kentucky all her life and going down US Highway 23, which
runs through Pikeville, and how she will lay down in the East
Kentucky ground when it’s her time to go. If you’re a Kentucky
person like I am, this song will grab the heartstrings. Also, at
the end, Bek throws in a line from “My Old Kentucky Home”
and hits the note of “Home” for about 30 seconds, at least! It
blew my music-loving mind to hear how overpowering that was!
Amazing. - BT Media Group
Discography
Still working on that hot first release.
Photos
Bio
Lead vocalist/songwriter, Bek Smallwood, brings a distinct voice that takes you to a place where Appalachia, soul, and rock and roll meet. The female-led, eclectic ensemble features songwriting that is personal, from the heart, honest, and relatable. Inspired by artists ranging from Etta James to Dolly Parton, Bek brings a personal blend of styles that is uniquely her own.
Providing smooth bass lines inspired by everything from 70’s funk to CCR, Tim Smallwood holds it all together, on stage and off. Bringing soul and funk to an Appalachian experience, his bass lines can be clever and subtle when necessary but can quickly switch to heavy and powerful. Married to Bek for over 15 years, the couple have been writing and performing together in some capacity for nearly 20 years. A huge part of the songwriting process, Tim has a heavy hand in all aspects of the sound.
Guitarist, Jordan McCown brings a sound and style all his own. He creates an experience that takes you back to the glory days of acid-washed denim and the twang of 90’s country. Just as quickly the smooth riffs and raw emotion can transport you to a place where the present and future collide in a unique style owned only by him.
Harlan native, Adam Brock, provides an intoxicating layer of soul that only adds to the experience of Bek and the Starlight Revue. Brock lends his talents on harmonica to bring to life soulful lyrics and inspired melodies. Joining the band in 2019, he has helped create a sound that will keep you craving more.
With a sound melded from influences reaching from punk rock to Fleetwood Mac, Jake Ratliff brings a fresh take on percussion to the band. Creative and inspiring, Jake does more than just keep the beat. He composes and creates drum lines that create dynamics and dramatics that enhance the overall feel and style of the band. With years of experience in so many different genres, Ratliff is an experienced drummer with an impressive resume.
Coming together as a band in 2019, they have finally landed on a sound that encompasses their experiences not only in music but in life. With such festivals as Laurel Cove, Festival of the Red, and Levitt Amp Series under their belt the group has shared the stage with great regional talent. Acts including, Sundy Best, Senora May, Luna and the Mountain Jets, Chelsea Nolan, and many more. Their sophomore album, Bloom was released in March 2022. The album explores life in a small coal town and the struggles and the triumphs it entails. Drenched in honest songwriting and musical prowess it has proven to be an experience for listeners.
Band Members
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