**NELA Music Scene**
SOUL SOLUTION 696 – ROCK HOUSE LIVE MEMPHIS
September 14, 2024, Memphis, TN
When I arrived at the Rock House Live, the air was thick with excitement, mingled with the scent of warming amplifiers. As the lights dimmed, Soul Solution 696 took the stage, greeted with enthusiastic cheers and screams. The audience rose to their feet, pumping their hands in the air as the band launched into “Our Nation’s Creed.” The intro sent the audience into a state of sonic passion. As the bass thundered through the venue, thrashing guitar tones raged against the pulsating drums, intertwined with an array of multicolored stage lights. They followed up with “Blood Line” and stunned the audience with “Cross of My Life,” featuring melodic tones and graceful tempo. The audience was captivated by the soundscape and visual experience.
Rock House Live Memphis has a rich musical history. During my short visit, I heard stories of Kip Winger, L.A. Guns, and members of Saliva visiting the venue, to name a few. James Patterson, drummer for the 1980s band Tora Tora, was at tonight’s show.
In rapid succession, “Fuel My Anger” and “Man I Am” set off a sonic explosion that propagated across the Memphis cityscape. The bass was a deep, guttural sound that you could feel as much as hear. The guitar riffs were equally intense, raging like a storm with searing solos. The pounding drums provided a relentless backbone, perfectly synchronized with dazzling multi-colored stage lights. Throughout the evening, musicianship and teamwork were demonstrated.
At one point in the show, lead singer Dusty Fletcher told the audience they were from Northeast Louisiana. The fans responded with thunderous cheers.
The track “Storm” was another original composition that evoked an emotional response from the audience. Branded with their own signature sound, they performed Pink Floyd’s “Another Brick in the Wall.” It was brilliantly done and received thunderous cheers and accolades. They followed up with “Damnation Dared.” It kept the audience going, but what came next pushed the envelope. I thought the track “Soul Train” was daring, innovative, and different—all qualities I appreciate and enjoy.
Soul Solution 696 closed their set with “Pistol Made of Stars.” The audience showed their appreciation with a standing ovation. I enjoyed their entire set, but if I had to pick, this would be my favorite. It conjured up memories from a time long ago on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Thank you, Soul Solution 696.
The band engaged their audience throughout the evening. The setlist, audio production, and light show were strategic, maintaining high energy throughout their entire performance. The crowd had a great time. I had the opportunity to talk with promoter Stephanie Johnson-Terry. She spoke about the Memphis music scene and how she met Soul Solutions 696. Before the night was over, she booked them for another gig at a larger venue. As she said, “That’s my job.” I watched her work the room, so it’s no surprise. Thank you for your time, Stephanie. Soul Solution 696 features Dusty Fletcher on guitar and vocals, Patrick Townsend on drums, and Jake Jones on bass. They are accomplished musicians. Their talent, work ethic, and care for their audience were on full display.
I got a chance to talk with Dusty and Jake. Dusty and I discussed writing, recording, and the business side of things. I was impressed and listened intently. Jake and I talked about heavy metal, hard rock, and thrash in terms of genre and its place in the Northeast Louisiana music scene. Jake’s input and thoughts were both worthy and appreciated.
If you’re looking for authentic hard rock music, book Soul Solution 696. Your event is guaranteed success.
Thank you, Rock House Live Memphis, for supporting live music.
Tom M.
Dusty Fletcher Jake Jones Rockhouse Live Memphis Adam Holland Stephanie Johnson-Terry
