Turning the corner on Broad Street, I almost dropped my camera. Out of the blue cornflower skies, a double rainbow arched over Main Street, the railroad tracks, and Model City Taphouse in Downtown Kingsport. The vibrant colors perfectly set the stage for Donnie and The Dry Heavers, who were headlining the 8th-anniversary celebration of Kingsport’s oldest tavern. Fittingly, the band’s merch features a rainbow motif—serendipity at its finest.
The crowd was a mix of friends and families, gathered for a warm summer evening at Kingsport’s own pot of gold. The Model City Taphouse, located at the historic Kingsport Train Station, offers an authentic experience, with tables set beside the train tracks and a perch overlooking Centennial Park. As folks lined up for craft beers and sandwiches, the anticipation for a night of good, organic music was palpable.
Backlit by the soft orange glow of the setting sun, Chance Lawson, the band’s frontman, made his entrance. A native of Kingsport, Chance embodies the hardworking spirit of this town. He’s got roots that run deep, much like the town’s history tied to the railroad tracks. His grandpap was Red Kirk, a local legend, and you can see that musical heritage in Chance’s presence. Clad in a Boosy Creek ’97 biker tee, khaki pants, dark oval glasses, and a GMC hat, he exudes a laid-back vibe that complements his lofty stature.
Chance is a neighbor of mine; we often cross paths walking our dogs downtown. Tonight, he led Donnie and The Dry Heavers onto the Taphouse’s cozy stage. The band—Andrew Kramer on vocals and guitar, Cameron Hite on vocals and drums, and Magus Vaughn on vocals and bass—immediately struck a chord with the audience. It’s worth noting that there’s no actual “Donnie” in the band; they’re just a hardworking group of musicians making waves across East Tennessee.
As the band kicked off, the crowd was treated to a dynamic mix of long jams and original music. Tracks like “Dear Dad” and “Captain Cruel” showcased their ability to weave personal experiences into their sound. Their original music is infused with the essence of East Tennessee, reflecting the rough and rowdy energy of a group of brothers who have grown up together. They are now navigating the challenges of adulthood, fueled by hard work, burning dreams, and a deep love for their craft. Cameron’s rowdy rocking pulse on the drums drives the band’s energetic performances, giving their sound an edge that keeps the audience engaged.
A standout moment was their performance of “Fear,” a Mumford and Sons-esque anthem that captures the essence of the band’s youth and the realities of life. With existential lyrics like, “I’m so tired of not knowing what it is I’m meant to do. What is life without surprises and what is death without disguises. We gotta keep our feet moving, ’cause it’s time that we are losing,” the song resonates with their fines too and you’ll find plenty more on their website. It’s a poignant reflection on coming of age, encapsulating the band’s journey and the uncertainty of the future.
Their setlist was a psychedelic blend of jam band classics, blues, and honky-tonk, with a sprinkle of original tunes. The band brought life to covers of Bill Withers and the Grateful Dead, all while keeping the groove steady and the vibes high. Chance’s trance-like state as he played, eyes rolling back behind his dark glasses, was a sight to behold. Andrew’s guitar work and vocals were equally impressive, showcasing the depth of talent in this band. He’s also known for his performances with another local favorite, Florencia and the Feeling.
The night felt like a friendly block party, with kids playing in the park, parents enjoying craft beers, and the band jamming away. Special guest Catfish Frye joined in, harmonica in hand, to exchange soulful solos with Chance and Andrew. It was a celebration of not just the Taphouse’s anniversary but also Kingsport’s enduring spirit and love for good music.
As I made my way back to settle my tab, I paused to watch a train approach in the dark, its horn echoing through the night. The lights cast a warm glow down the tracks, a reminder of Kingsport’s industrious past and the hardworking ethos that still thrives here. Donnie and The Dry Heavers embody that spirit, proving that you don’t have to leave town to find top-notch, original music.
For anyone looking to experience the local scene, a night out at the Taphouse is a must. The relaxed vibe and live music make it the perfect escape. As I headed back to my loft, the night was still alive with the sound of karaoke and laughter at Macados. It’s warm, tafter midnight and 68 decibels piping bad Tom Petty on the streets of downtown – not far from home – @OverTheBlackheart.