The Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band Raised Some Hell at Off Broadway

— by Carrie Zukoski

When The Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band stepped on stage at 9 p.m. on this Thursday night at Off Broadway in St. Louis, die-hard fans (from age 11 to 70-plus) took three steps closer toward the stage in anticipation. They knew what to expect and were not disappointed. Dressed in overhauls, a driving cap, and sunglasses, Rev. Peyton loomed large on the intimate stage, looking as if he could easily pin a grizzly bear to the mat. But he was all smiles and clearly intent on having nothing but a rollicking good time during their boisterous set.

Now, if you’ve never seen the Indiana-based Big Damn Band (and you’ve had 20 years to do so), you might be surprised that it’s only a three-piece band consisting of Rev. Peyton, “Washboard” Breezy, and Jacob Powell on drums. However, the three have enough energy and stage presence for twice that number. Their fast-paced, washboard-picking/fingerstyle guitar playing American country blues arrangements are rather unique in a world that seems awash in pop, hip-hop, rock, and new country music. The Big Damn Band brings the kind of foot-stomping fun that’s found on a sultry Sunday afternoon gathered around, well, someone’s front porch, hence the Porch Stomp tour that may never end (it began in March 2024 and continues at least through March of 2026, maybe longer).

Their 60-plus-minute set included the jaunty “Poor Until Payday,” the driving ZZ Top-esque “Ways and Means” (which Peyton shared that Billy Gibbons thinks is their best song), to the sweet-sounding “Honeysuckle” (from their February 2025 album).

St. Louis’ The Maness Brothers opened the night with 40 minutes of their heavy, grungy blues-rock. The brothers performed several new songs, though we’re not privy to the song titles, the feeling was gritty, heavy, relentless pounding and drive felt through every bone in your body with lyrics such as “well, I tried” and “goddamn working man.” Brothers David (guitar) and Jake (drums) have a new album release party at Off Broadway on December 27, and, given a taste during this set, it’s a not-to-be-missed show.

The overall vibe of the night was of camaraderie and joy, and we’re pretty sure Big Damn Band makes music and friends everywhere they go.

Big Damn Band setlist https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/the-reverend-peytons-big-damn-band/2025/off-broadway-st-louis-mo-1b429904.html

See all photos from the night: https://bit.ly/PeytonsBDB25cz