Miller & the Other Sinners – 10/10

Miller and The Other Sinners features David Michael Miller (“Miller”) on vocals and guitars, Steve Davis on keys, organ, key bass, and vocals, Isaiah Griffin on drums and percussion, Dalton Sharp on saxophone, and Paul Gaspar on trumpet, who has played with the band for the last two years.

The five musicians recorded their latest full-length album, “Thieves In The Breadline,” in a studio Miller built in his mid-1800s farmhouse during the COVID shutdown. The album captures the band’s sound and live chemistry after more than four years of working together. Inspired by a Marcus King record produced by Warren Haynes—both strong influences on Miller—it aims for a warm sound reminiscent of iconic recordings, with a modern presence. Miller engineered, arranged, produced, mixed, and mastered the album. It follows his 2014 solo album, “Poisons Sipped.”

The songs address current and historic social struggles while celebrating the possibilities of who we can become. The title track is a 1970s-influenced soul tune about economic hardship for poor and middle-class people. “Uneven” explores advantages and disadvantages faced by marginalized communities in a blues-rock ballad. “Street Child” and “Only 7,” a nod to the tragic shooting of Jacob Blake, also take on heavy themes. “Better Times, Better Days,” “Rhythm Don’t Mind,” and “Low Down” celebrate life, music, and who we can become.

Two songs were inspired by the late Darick Campbell of The Campbell Brothers: the reggae-esque “Black Water Fishin’,” which came from a memorable conversation before a gig together, and the tribute “Teach Me To Slide.” The latter features Sonny Landreth, a friend of Darick’s, Terrell King, Darick’s understudy, and Jay Moynihan, Buddy Guy’s longtime saxophonist and also a friend of Darick’s.

Founded and led by Miller, who worked with The Campbell Brothers on his first two albums, the band grew from his passion for collaborating with musicians who share a love for American roots music, dynamic live performances, and respect for the song. Miller has toured the evolving project as an independent artist for nine years, playing more than 1,300 shows—from festivals such as Borderland, Telluride, Flagstaff Blues and Brews, and Fairport to backyard house concerts and dive bars—with configurations ranging from a solo act to a 10-piece band.

Doors: 5:30 pm
Showtime: 7:00 pm–9:00 pm

The 443 is an intimate listening room with table service and seating for 75. Green squares and circles on the floor plan indicate bar-height tables; orange squares indicate regular-height tables. Most seats are sold as “Tables for Two,” and each ticket admits two people. A limited number of single seats are available; single attendees may share a table with other single attendees. Multiple tickets purchased under the same name will be seated together, up to six people. Specific-table requests are a perk for VIP Patron members.

For special seating arrangements—including for a walker, cane, service animal, wheelchair, or low-table requirement—or to sit with another party, email the venue after placing your order. All tickets are will call; give your name at the door. Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/miller-the-other-sinners-at-the-443-tickets-1992369458684?aff=oddtdtcreator

Venue: The 443 Social Club & Lounge, 443 Burnet Ave, Syracuse, NY 13203