They’re a southern roots band, with a folksy, bluegrass, gospel and sometimes punk rock feel. It seems like an odd combination, but The Vespers, a band containing two brothers (the Jones brothers) and two sisters (the Cryar sisters) have a unique way of sharing their love of music with audiences.

With the start of their first song, it’s easy to peg who these performers are. There’s Callie – the vibrant lead singer, Phoebe – the quiet and seemingly timid back-up singer, Taylor Jones – a rocker on the drums and, finally, Bruno Jones – who looks to be the “master” of the seven+ instruments on stage.

Fortunately, this group does not conform to stereotypes. Swapping instruments every few songs, they show that every individual in this group is multi-talented with no one person standing out. The initially timid Phoebe becomes more and more confident as the show goes on, belting out some powerful vocals in later songs –proving her sister isn’t the only vibrant one in this group. Taylor switches from drums to the mandolin — showing his softer side, and Bruno even shows he has a singing voice, backing up the ladies on several songs. By the end of the concert, each individual is someone totally different than originally thought. They are real people, with real ideas, real emotions and a great sense of humor.

In between songs each performer takes some time to speak to the audience, sharing a little about themselves as they go. Taylor reveals his deep love of jam, Bruno shares his passion for supporting children in other countries, Callie seems to enjoy telling jokes, especially in response to her band mates, and Phoebe, the ever serious one, shares intimate stories from her childhood.

We also learn so much about these performers from the style songs they play, as well as the carefully written lyrics. Songs about life, love, depression, and childhood reach out to most audience members, creating a feeling of nostalgia, or maybe even sweet pain. In fact, some of the songs are so touching, the lyrics seem more significant than the sound that accompanies it.

“It’s nice to perform in a sitting room because we can play the songs where the lyrics really matter,” says Callie.

With such significant lyrics, this group is tailor made for small, intimate spaces.

Phoebe Cryar is able to convey deep emotional feelings when she shares stories about depression and death, singing songs such as “Eyes Wide Open” and “Will You Love Me?” and Callie Cryar stuns the audience with her loud, soul connecting voice. It would be extremely difficult not to feel a connection to this singer, or this group for that matter. They sing songs about life and truth.

The songs of The Vespers reach out to you like the hand of your best friend, a gesture subtly reminding you that everything is going to be okay.

I would definitely recommend booking The Vespers for music events you might be hosting in the future – especially if you are looking for someone to perform in an intimate setting. This band is unique, extremely personable, and puts on a fun performance.

Click here for upcoming performances by The Vespers.