Story & Photographs by Diane Fleischman

 

 

It was their tour kick off Friday night at The Sands Event Center for NeedToBreathe, as they performed for a full crowd.  Hailing from South Carolina, these four young men possess that southern charm that was not only endearing but also quite humbling. 

The band opened with  “Great Night” followed by “Feet, Don’t Fail Me Now”, then lead singer, Bear Rinehart, almost in an apologetic manner, but with some humor, told the audience, “We’re probably going to make a lot of mistakes tonight.”  Later, with his fist pressed against his heart, Rinehart pledged, “I’m going to give you everything I’ve got.”  In its most sincere form his plea was genuine, and at that moment, everyone knew this was going to be a great concert. 

While NeedToBreathe has become somewhat pigeonholed as Christian Rock music, their music doesn’t really contain religious overtones.  They fit the mold more so as a soft alternative rock band, with lyrics that are relatable, positive, and uplifting.  Their style is strongly influenced geographically, almost as classic southern rock music with great harmonies.  Where audience participation is required, and sing a longs bring everyone together. 

The members of NeedToBreathe are Bear Rinehart (lead vocals, guitar and piano),  Bo Rinehart (vocals, guitar), Seth Both (vocals, bass), Josh Lovelace (vocals, keyboard), and Randall Harris (drums). 

Mixed into their set were cover songs, “Whatta Man” (Salt & Pepa), “Folsom Prison Blues” (Johnny Cash), which carried an accented funky beat, and “Stand By Me” (Ben E. King), which was played during the acoustic portion of the show. 

Closing the set was “Hard Love”, title track of their 2016 album.  It ranked high on the Billboard Charts, and was the fan favorite of the night as the fans screamed. 

Rinehart started the encore on piano with  “Washed By Water”, and the beginning portion of “Something Beautiful”.  The band then required that the audience remained quiet, as they stepped away from their microphones and performed an acoustic version of “The Outsiders”, and a snippet of  “Slumber”. 

NeedToBreathe’s 2017 tour has started off with a bang in Bethlehem.  They are out on the road till the end of the year, with some shows already sold out.  The band also returns for a Rock Boat cruise, hosted by Sister Hazel in January.   

 

Find NEEDTOBREATHE online:

	https://www.youtube.com/user/NEEDTOBREATHEVIDEOS
	https://www.facebook.com/NEEDTOBREATHE/
	https://twitter.com/NEEDTOBREATHE

 

 

 

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