Nestled in the scenic landscape of Troutdale, Oregon, Edgefield, McMenamin’s crown jewel resort, played host to a memorable night of American rock. While the evening featured the legendary Bob Dylan, the performance by John Mellencamp truly set the stage ablaze, delivering a powerful set of heartland rock anthems that resonated deeply with the sold-out crowd.
For those unfamiliar, Brian and Mike McMenamin are Oregon icons, renowned for their collection of unique brewpubs and dedication to fostering a vibrant music scene throughout the Pacific Northwest. Edgefield, a former poor farm transformed into a sprawling resort, boasts not only a winery, distillery, and brewery, but also a stunning 5,000-person amphitheater. This venue, known for its excellent acoustics and intimate feel despite its capacity, provided the perfect backdrop for a night of legendary music. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, the air thick with excitement for what these iconic musicians would bring.
My personal connection to the McMenamin’s adds a layer of appreciation to this venue, as my brother-in-law, Joe Vondrak, has been their trusted contractor since the inception of their unique establishment. This personal touch enhances the experience of witnessing such a performance at a place with deep local roots.
John Mellencamp, taking the stage first, wasted no time in igniting the crowd with a setlist packed with fan favorites. Opening with the unmistakable chords of “Little Pink Houses,” he immediately transported the audience to the heart of America. The energy surged as he transitioned into “Paper in Fire,” followed by sing-along classics like “Check it Out,” “Cherry Bomb,” and “Small Town.” Even with a change in drummers – Kenny Arnoff no longer holding the sticks – Mellencamp’s band, including his longtime fiddle player, delivered a performance that was as tight and polished as if they were still in their early days. Decades of playing together were evident in their seamless musical interplay.
Mellencamp then artfully weaved in selections from his latest T-Bone Burnett-produced album. While these newer songs, characterized by a sparser and more atmospheric sound, offered a contrast to his signature anthems, they were seamlessly integrated into the setlist and captivated the audience. Tracks like “Don’t Need This Body,” “If I Die Sudden,” and “Save Some Time to Dream” showcased a different facet of John Mellencamp’s artistry, earning praise in reviews for their “spooky” and introspective nature when juxtaposed with his rock staples such as “Rain on The Scarecrow.”
It’s worth noting John Mellencamp‘s personal journey. Having faced a heart attack attributed to years of chain smoking, he has emerged with renewed vigor and fitness, seemingly losing none of his musical edge. Midway through his performance, Mellencamp addressed the crowd with his characteristic brevity, stating, “People say I talk too much, so I’m not talking tonight.” He let his music speak for itself, culminating in powerful renditions of “Crumblin’ Down” and “Authority Song” that left the audience clamoring for an encore. Unfortunately, due to Edgefield’s agreement with its neighbors regarding noise curfew, the encore never came, leaving the crowd wanting more but thoroughly satisfied with the electrifying performance they had just witnessed from John Mellencamp.
Following a brief intermission, the stage was set for Bob Dylan. However, it was John Mellencamp‘s performance that undeniably stole the show, reminding everyone of his enduring power and relevance in the landscape of American rock music. His ability to blend classic hits with newer, more nuanced material, all while delivering a high-energy and engaging performance, solidified his status as a true rock icon. For fans of John Mellencamp, this night at Edgefield was a testament to his lasting impact and continued musical vitality.
While the original article does proceed to detail Bob Dylan’s performance, the focus here remains squarely on John Mellencamp and his standout set at Edgefield. His performance served as a potent reminder of the enduring appeal of heartland rock and the timeless quality of John Mellencamp‘s music. He proved once again why he remains a vital force in American music, capable of electrifying audiences night after night with his blend of classic anthems and compelling new material.
