Though rightfully associated with the jam band circuit, the Derek Trucks Band is much more than a musical backdrop for the youthful tie dye set. Built on top notch songwriting, impeccable musicianship, and a solemn commitment to putting music before personality, the group is a throwback to the blues/gospel tradition that forms its biggest influence. The sextet also has an openmindedness to music that seems increasingly rare on today’s rock circuit. Every show feels like an exploration, and whether they are drawing on their American roots or influences soaked up in their world travels, their concerts always feel fresh and uplifting.

As drummer Yonrico Scott put it, “We’re a new school band with with an old school flavor.”

Area fans can catch the group on Thursday, as part of the National Harbor‘s Sunset Concert Series.

The ensemble’s center of gravity is its namesake, who, at just 30 years-old, has already spent over 15 years touring and recording. Regularly performing with the Allman Brothers Band (his uncle Butch is one of that group’s drummers) and recently touring with Eric Clapton, Derek Trucks is considered a master of the slide, and has already entered the pantheon of guitar gods.

“Thank God for Derek, he just has so much energy,” said Scott. “He’s not a flashy guy or a flashy player, he just wants it to be right.”