The Weight Band Delivers Soulful Americana at The Vogel Theater
The Vogel Theater in Red Bank felt more like a living-room jam than a concert stage last week, and I loved it. The Weight Band brought warm, rootsy energy to an intimate and tuned-in crowd. With no opening act and a straightforward walk-on, the band eased into their set like old friends picking up where they left off, tapping into a deep musical current that runs straight from Woodstock to today.
Originally formed by former members and collaborators of The Band, The Weight Band was born from the spirit of Levon Helm’s legendary Midnight Rambles and the deep musical soil of Americana. Guitarist Jim Weider, himself a veteran of The Band’s later years, leads a lineup of seasoned pros who don’t just perform roots music; they live it. Over the past decade, they've built their own legacy with soulful songwriting, tight musicianship, and a reverence for the traditions they carry forward.
The current lineup includes Jim Weider on guitar and mandolin, Michael Bram on drums and vocals, Albert Rogers on bass and vocals, Matt Zeiner on keys and vocals, and Brian Mitchell on keyboards and vocals. Each member brings deep roots and decades of road-tested experience, and together they form a band that feels both effortless and electric onstage.
Sitting in for Brian Mitchell tonight was Jeff Kazee, longtime musical director and keyboard player for Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes. Kazee brought a whole new dimension to the night, layering in soulful Hammond tones and lending his voice to the band’s harmonies with ease. He didn’t just fill in, he elevated the sound.
The evening took an electrifying turn when Weider picked up his mandolin and led the band into their now-signature rendition of Bruce Springsteen’s “Atlantic City.” They’ve truly made the song their own, grounded in Americana, yet deeply personal and the audience lit up, erupting in appreciation at the shift.
Jim Weider’s crisp Telecaster was matched by Matt Zeiner’s gospel-tinged organ and Kazee’s rich textures, while Albert Rogers’ bass and Michael Bram’s drums kept everything grounded and grooving. Originals like “Shines Like Gold” “Weight of the World” and “Out of Wilderness”, were played with heart, alongside classics like “The Weight.” The night ended with an encore that felt like it was about to kick off a whole new show.
No frills. Just seasoned players, powerful songs, and a sound that honors the past while staying very much alive. If you get the chance, run to see The Weight Band live, it’s a box well worth checking.
