Archie Powell & the Exports @ Double Door – Chicago, IL

Archie Powell & the Exports are one of my favorite bands to shoot. I have been going to their shows for some time now and it seems more often than not, I end up shooting them around this time of year. This night was the 6th time I’ve covered them and these are my favorite shots yet. This show was extra special because it was with Tommy Stinson. If you haven’t experienced the Exports’ sonic bombardment, they can be described as Tom Petty blended with the Replacements and aged in oak barrel to perfection. These guys know exactly how much fun being in a band should be and have no problem showing it off. It was a real treat to see how Archie and company showed fellow Replacements fans what this band has meant to them over the years. The fresh material we were treated to was on point and fits right in with their existing jams. Whenever I end up starting the year shooting Archie Powell, it usually leads to good things. I’m looking forward to what 2016 will bring for both myself and my buddies in the Exports.

By Mat Stokes