If you’re inclined to blues-folk with heart, wit and a deep sense of groove, you might just want to spend a couple of hours seeing The Wood Brothers next time they’re in your town. Twenty-plus years into their career the trio of bassist Chris Wood, guitarist/vocalist Oliver Wood and drummer Jono Rix, just might be at the zenith of their career. Seen this past weekend at Orlando’s Plaza Live the band was locked in and delivered a sterling set that spanned their entire career.

Opening with “Between the Beats” from their most recent album, 2023’s sterling Heart is the Hero, the set started off introspective, mid-tempo and without flaw. That trend continued through the duration of their 20-song set. Whether it was the hip-shaking, beer-swilling gallop “Shoofly Pie” or the groove-heavy “Happiness Jones” the band was quick to dive deep into their catalog and offer a set of first-rate musicianship.

Bassist Chris Wood is arguably the band’s most well-known member, considering his contributions to the critically acclaimed jazz outfit Medeski, Martin and Wood. But twenty-plus years into his time with his older brother Oliver Wood he has never looked more comfortable, more confident and more buoyant. Whether it was impromptu boot-scooting on the near-perfect “Alabaster” or “Wastin’ My Mind” the band appeared loose, eager and deeply locked in. For all of Chris Wood’s winning moments on bass, frontman Oliver Wood’s slide guitar and nuanced and nimble guitar work was something to behold. Whether it was more introspective cuts like the halcyon “Little Bit Sweet” and the nostalgia-laden “Rollin’ On” to more Delta blues-inspired cuts like “One Drop of Truth” or “Postcards From Hell.”

To put it succinctly, they might just be one of the best live bands this writer has ever seen. That isn’t exactly surprising. Many have referenced that the band are first-rate live performers, but until you sit and witness it, you soon find it is something to cherish and behold. The reality is the Wood Brothers aren’t getting any younger, but their albums continue to improve year over year. Moroever, as this past Friday indicated, they’re truly at the top of their game.

Do yourself a favor and spend two hours with The Wood Brothers. You won’t regret it.