(A look back at Pittsburgh band Ghost Hounds’ sold-out show in the city’s Cultural District)

PITTSBURGH — Ghost Hounds delivered a powerful performance in Pittsburgh on Feb. 7, driven by the commanding presence of vocalist SAVNT, whose blend of grit, soul, and effortless control anchored the night.

The Pittsburgh-based band, which has toured with the Rolling Stones and Bob Seger, quickly grabbed a sold-out Byham Theater crowd’s attention with “First Last Time,” showcasing SAVNT’s dynamic range teamed with blues-leaning guitar work and Kristin Webber’s dazzling fiddle work.

Producer, guitarist Thomas Tull and Beaver County Musicians’ Hall of Famer Joe Munroe on keys reinforced the group’s tight sound. Their collaborative energy was apparent and defined the performance.

 

The set hit its stride with “Between Me and the Devil,” where Ghost Hounds guitarist Tyler Chiarelli, formerly of the Florida Georgia Line tour band, pulled the audience in with a magnetic, emotionally-charged delivery.

The night closed on a high with a fiery rendition of The Rolling Stones’ “Gimme Shelter,” featuring special guest Channel Haynes (who starred as Tina Turner in the West End theatre production of “Tina: The Tina Turner Musical.”)

Don Felder of The Eagles opened the show with a rousing performance loaded with Eagles classics and his solo radio hit “Heavy Metal.” His vocals were smooth, and his guitar playing was fiery. He used a double-neck guitar for “Hotel California.”