Local Music Scene
Better late than never: Big-hearted Dallas rockers Early Pearl finally return tothe stage
From 2003 to 2009, Early Pearl had a great run in Dallas. They were a band with mainstream rock sensibilities, so they were rarely acknowledged in local media outlets that were more concerned with “indie” music sounds.
Regardless, Early Pearl put a lot of effort into their shows, and they connected with audiences. A lot of people came to see them — again and again.
Early Pearl drew crowds, and they did it because their brand of live entertainment came from a real place. It was consistent and reliable. They didn’t act like rock stars but rather the do-good guys from the neighborhood who have never forgotten the great old days they spent with you.
They don’t act like rock stars but rather the do-good guys from the neighborhood who have never forgotten the great old days they spent with you.
The crowd always felt the genuine human emotion coming from the guys, who were truly excited to stand up and play. Time after time. There is no better example than one of their last big gigs before the breakup, in front of thousands at the “Rock on The Range” festival in Ohio in 2009.
We could really use an Early Pearl show to blow off some steam. All the more reason — and no better timing — for a reunion. A solid fortress of musicianship and experience is here, with drummer Bobby Primm, from well-knowns Big Iron; bassist Chris Ivey, from Arms of the Sun; plus guitarists Chris Jackson (Amercian Ritual) and Ryan Maynard (Redefine, Calling All War).
“We missed the chemistry we had,” says crooner Bishop Booker. His singing style goes great with Bobby “Blue” Bland and Wilson Pickett, but there’s a little of Sevendust’s Lajon Witherspoon in there too.
“We can walk into a room and the vibe would just flow,” Booker says. “We inspire each other when we are together. It was so awesome to come in and pick up like we never stopped. We’ve already started the writing process again.”
But is Early Pearl back to stay? Or is this a one-off thing?
“We are back,” Booker says, “if the world will have us!”
Well, we cannot speak for the world, but Trees will have them — on Saturday, December 15, with The Commotion and Black Sky.
