LIVE: Reese Fulmer and the Carriage House Band @ The Cock ‘n Bull, Galway, 08/18/2022

The smell of campfire and grilled meat wafted across the patio as I watched the leaves of the birch tree sway in the sky above, and before Reese Fulmer and the Carriage House Band even took the stage, I felt a sense of peace that belongs perfectly in memory as an end of summer night. 

The Cock ‘n Bull hosts many concerts on its patio from spring to fall and often earns the Nippertown “Top Tip of the Day” for its amazing selection of great musicians. The delicious menu, farmhouse vibe (it is in a giant barn / on the barn’s patio), and selection of great drinks supports the setting in a way that can only be improved with talent. And on Thursday, Reese Fulmer and the Carriage House Band brought entirely local talent to the patio for two sets of original music that was mind-blowing.

Reese is a favorite songwriter of mine, as he is able to be a truth teller about love, life and death while still lifting my heart up with hope. Thursday night was no exception. He played my favorites, including “Ohio” and “Feels Like Heaven.”

Joined on guitar by Andy Arnold, whose solos stopped me from breathing a few times with intensity, and on drums by Chris Carey (who is also the pianist for Super 400). The Carriage House Band’s membership fulfilled the promise of Reese’s songwriting with integrity.

They also covered Josh Ritter’s “Get Ready to Get Down” to please Reese’s family, including his sister who was in the audience with their parents. The band’s overall vibe was joy: joy at being together, joy for the audience, and joy for the sounds they created.

The Cock ‘n Bull did its part with scrumptious meals, drinks, and a dessert menu that featured blueberry pizza (yeah, they went there). The dog in the main barn, Tugg, offered kisses when this writer said hello, wrapping up a perfect end of summer.

But summer isn’t over yet. The Concert Series at Cock ‘n Bull continues with Keith Pray Trio playing on September 16th. Totally worth the drive for the food alone, Rick’s pick of musicians is guaranteed to delight and satisfy your quest for the perfect night out.