by DCist contributor Catherine McCarthy

Grace Potter and the Nocturnals are probably more accustomed to traditional venues than the National Zoo. Despite the accompanying early curfew and questionable acoustics, the big white tent that served as the performance space for the band on Friday night was packed to its edges with fans. The group has managed to gain a cult following over the last six years with high-energy shows and charismatic stage presence. Then there is Grace Potter’s incredible voice. To hear Potter’s voice on an album is one thing, to hear it live is an entirely different matter. Potter’s voice is a force to be reckoned with, moving easily from the howl of a 1960’s rock chanteuse to a soulful gospel call, conjuring old mind-blowing live footage of a young Leslie Gore. Potter’s audience is left to wonder how she can maintain such power and range in every song for a full length set.