Paul Thorn // Live @ the Bomhard Theater // 11.8.23 -

Article & Photos by: Michael W. Bright

Louisville, KY – Paul Thorn’s recent concert at the Bomhard Theatre in Louisville offered his signature blend of wit, gritty storytelling, and Southern-infused rock, gospel, and blues, captivating a devoted crowd that couldn’t seem to get enough.

Thorn warmed up with a couple of familiar songs from his earliest recordings, “Heart Like Mine” from 1997’s Hammer and Nail and “Lovers Vacation” from 2004. Tales from his colorful past were woven throughout the music.

Most of the well-versed folks had heard many of these stories before, but Thorn’s humorous delivery and authenticity make them endlessly engaging. For example, “Hammer and Nail” is a transparent reference to his stint as a professional boxer (with an impressive record of 14-4). His brush with greatness came when he fought world middleweight champion Roberto Duran, which helped shape a personal philosophy that declares he’d rather be “a hammer” than “a nail.” It must’ve been a painful fight. One story in particular drew laughter and contemplation as Thorn recounted his Pentecostal preacher father’s unexpected shift in favorite hymns—from “Amazing Grace” to “We Shall Overcome,” a change echoing themes of growth and understanding that resonate through Thorn’s music.

Musically, Thorn’s band delivered a powerhouse set featuring songs like “It’s Never Too Late to Call,” which is also the title of his most recent album. Crowd favorites from his extensive catalog included “Long Way From Tupelo” and “Burn Down the Trailer Park.” The music was as much a reflection of his life as his stories, with songs that embody humor, resilience, and his rough-edged yet soulful style.

The audience—mostly long-time fans with only a few first-timers—cheered, laughed, and sang along, swept up in the warmth and energy of Thorn’s performance. His concert ended with “Get You a Healing,” a gospel-styled sing-along, which found him walking through the (now standing) crowd, laying hands on or hugging anyone who wanted or seemed to need it. One woman was heard to say, “My mother died today, and then, I knew I had to be here.”

For those wanting to catch this vibrant, soulful storyteller in action, Paul Thorn’s upcoming tour dates are listed at www.paulthorn.com, where you can also explore his discography and find additional information.