Whispering Trees Duo to Perform at July Second Saturday

VICKSBURG, Miss. – Vicksburg’s Second Saturday is this weekend, July 13, featuring members of the Whispering Trees. The duo, consisting of the primary songwriters of the band, will play from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Washington Street Park.

The Whispering Trees, a band formed by 2023 Mississippi Songwriter Naomi Taylor, features Taylor on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Joey Raines on lead guitar and background vocals, Caleb Dickerson on drums, and Perry Hammett on bass.

The project started as The Naomi Taylor Band, but with Taylor getting married soon, the band decided a name change was in order.

“We figured we would promote under my name since I already had a following in the southern states. We went with that for a while, but I’m about to get married and change my name. Joey (Raines, lead guitar) and I brainstormed different names for a while, and we settled on ‘The Whispering Trees.’ It just felt right, ya know?” said Taylor.

“The music we are making with the band is a bit heavier and more rock-based than the music we were doing before as the Naomi Taylor Band. It was a hard decision to start over and try to gain the attention of a brand-new fanbase under a different brand, but we believe in the music we are creating. We believe it will resonate well with people all over!”

Taylor and Raines are the primary songwriters for the band. Typically, the songs start on an acoustic guitar, with the two of them working out chord progressions and main song ideas before bringing it to the other members.

Ideas come to life

“We mostly start on acoustic to get the chord progressions and main idea of the song. Once we bring those songs to electric guitar, we’re full of even more inspiration because of all of the freedom that you have with different tones and pedals and sounds! That’s when we really start to hear the ideas come to life! Perry and Caleb are great at helping with the structure of the songs and the dynamics,” said Taylor.

The band recently released their first single, “Where Are You Now?”, which is available on all music streaming platforms. They are currently recording material for a full-length album planned for release in early October 2024.

“We just can’t wait to show y’all the music we are making! Y’all come see the Whispering Trees duo at 4 p.m.!” Taylor added.

Air-Conditioned Gaming

This month will also feature Wright Mobile Gaming for a little something extra for the kids (and kids at heart). The gaming trailer features several current-gen consoles, accommodates up to 24 simultaneous players, and offers air conditioning.

“We encourage everyone to come out to Second Saturday Vicksburg. It’s free to the public and we always have stellar entertainment. We know it will be warm but tents, chairs, blankets, etc. are welcome. Come hang out with us”, said Nate Hoben, who is responsible for booking for Second Saturday.