Sawyer Hill stormed into Cambridge’s Sinclair on Tuesday, April 22, and proved why he’s quickly becoming a standout name in southern rock. Decked out in a Mick Jagger-inspired red linen shirt and armed with vocals that echoed the gravelly tones of Tom Waits and Johnny Cash, Hill captivated the audience from the first chord. His deep baritone voice pairs well with his virtuosic guitar playing, delivering a dynamic and energetic set that thrilled the intimate venue.

It’s no secret that Arkansas-born Hill draws frequent comparisons to Johnny Cash. But unlike other artists who might balk at a direct comparison, Sawyer Hill confidently embraces it. The standout moment of the evening was undeniably his fiery rendition of “Folsom Prison Blues,” which culminated in an electrifying guitar battle, igniting cheers that filled the entire room.

Above all, what sets Sawyer Hill apart is his infectious joy on stage. Sporting an irrepressible grin throughout the performance, it was clear Hill was having as much fun as the fans. At one point, he took the excitement directly to the crowd, delivering a blistering guitar solo right in the middle of the packed venue, surrounded by energized and enthusiastic fans.

Kicking off the night was Nashville’s The Criticals. Unlike many opening acts who keep things simple, The Criticals arrived with a full five-piece band and quickly set the tone. Their energetic performance warmed up the crowd perfectly, setting the stage for an unforgettable night of guitar solos, high energy, and pure rock-and-roll fun.

Follow Sawyer Hill: Website | Instagram | TikTok | Spotify | YouTube