The Revivalists
Photography by Megan Verhulst
THE REVIVALISTS BRING ROCK AND SOUL TO THE FILLMORE
October 13, 2026- The Revivalists brought their signature blend of rock, soul, and alternative influences to The Fillmore Charlotte on Tuesday, October 13, delivering an energetic performance filled with dynamic instrumentation, infectious rhythms, and the anthemic songwriting that has defined the band's sound. The New Orleans-born group transformed the Charlotte venue into a celebration of music and connection, balancing high-energy rock moments with soulful melodies and emotionally resonant performances.
Frontman David Shaw commanded the stage with his powerful vocals and guitar work, leading an eight-piece lineup whose chemistry remained at the center of the evening. Zack Feinberg's guitar work, Ed Williams' pedal steel guitar, and Rob Ingraham's saxophone brought layers of texture to the band's arrangements, while George Gekas anchored the sound on bass. Andrew Campanelli and Paulet "PJ" Howard provided a driving rhythmic foundation on drums and percussion, complemented by Michael Girardot's keyboards and trumpet. Together, the musicians created a full-bodied sound that moved effortlessly between rock intensity, soulful expression, and moments of musical spontaneity.
Opening the night with "Monster," The Revivalists immediately established the energy that carried throughout the set. "All My Friends" and "Kid" kept the momentum moving, while "Bad, Bad, Bad" and "Holy" highlighted the band's ability to combine infectious grooves with powerful instrumental arrangements. Each performance showcased the interplay between the musicians, allowing the band's individual contributions to complement the larger sound.
The set continued with "Fade Away," "Otherside of Paradise," and "Soulfight," offering a dynamic progression through the band's catalog. "Lost and Found" and "Razorblades and Runways" added further depth to the performance, while "Amber" and "It Was a Sin" brought a more reflective dimension to the evening. The shifting arrangements demonstrated the versatility that has helped The Revivalists establish a distinct identity within modern rock.
One of the night's memorable moments arrived with the band's performance of "American Girl," the beloved Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers classic. The cover brought a familiar rock anthem into the set while allowing The Revivalists to interpret it through their own energetic, instrumentally rich sound. The selection served as a fitting reminder of the musical influences that continue to shape the band's approach.
The encore delivered a strong finish, beginning with "Heart Stop" and continuing with "Love's the Only Thing" and "Wish I Knew You," one of the band's best-known songs. The evening concluded with a medley of "Heart Shaped Box" by Nirvana and "Wicked Game" by Chris Isaak, bringing together two recognizable songs through the band's distinctive live arrangements. The closing moments underscored the group's willingness to explore different musical textures while maintaining the soulful character that defines its performances.
Throughout the show, The Revivalists demonstrated why their live performances remain a central part of their appeal. Shaw's expressive delivery, the layered instrumentation, and the chemistry shared across the eight-member lineup created a performance that felt both polished and spontaneous. From the opening notes of "Monster" to the final medley, the band maintained a compelling balance of musical precision and unrestrained energy.
The Charlotte performance added another memorable stop to The Revivalists' 2026 touring schedule, bringing their expansive sound to fans in North Carolina. With a catalog that moves between soulful rock, alternative influences, and infectious anthems, the band continues to create live experiences that connect audiences through both familiar favorites and deeper cuts. As The Revivalists continue their run of tour dates, their blend of musicianship, energy, and heartfelt songwriting remains a defining part of what makes the band a compelling live act.
