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I'm surprised I haven't seen any of these bands mentioned, as I have always understood them to have a reputation as great live bands. Having seen all of them myself (usually more than once), I can attest to the fact that they all offer outstanging live experiences:
1. Drive-by Truckers: will blow your head off with their power, but also possess a lyricism that balances that. They also offer great storytelling between songs.
2. The Hold Steady: also very powerful and very exuberant, which is really contagious. I'm way too old to be jumping around down in front, but I am compelled to do so when I see these guys.
3. The Twilight Singers: Apart from the music, which takes on a harder rock edge live (which is good), Greg Dulli is just flat-out entertaining in his interaction with the crowd - sometimes playful, sometimes confrontational, but always fun.
What these bands have that I appreciate is an ability to engage the crowd and make them feel a part of the event, and not just inert viewers. And I always get the feeling that the show I've just seen is not the same show they will give the next night to the next crowd. Because if all the concert turns out to be is a big listening party, then I can just stay home and wind up the stereo and get the same experience.
