It was an extra muggy night and a packed house for Thursday’s show at Great Scott. These were not exactly ideal conditions for the predominantly bearded and flannel-clad audience. Fortunately, everyone seemed willing to deal with some sweaty discomfort for the sake of seeing Brown Bird and their two openers. They were rewarded with a stunning and, at times, incredibly moving show.
melophobe favorite Mister Sister took the stage first. Starting off the performance a cappella, lead singer Amelia Emmet captivated the audience and never let go. Her voice brings to mind a grittier Joanna Newsom--heartbreaking and beautiful. Eventually rounding out the sound with the full band and Emmet playing banjo, their haunting set of folk songs made it well worth showing up early.
As another local favorite, Coyote Kolb, began setting up, we quickly got an idea of what was in store: handkerchief-wrapped mikes, barefoot pedal steel player, and probably the coolest-looking, pelt-adorned kick drum I’ve ever seen. Each band member was sporting a hat, tattoos, thick beard or some combination of the three. While it was a perfectly enjoyable set of blues-rock, I couldn’t help but feel they were putting style over substance. I’m curious to see how they mature and grow into their sound, but in the meantime, at least they have the look down.
Despite the uncomfortable heat and a few technical difficulties, headliners Brown Bird did not disappoint. Taking the stage for their first ever sold-out show in Boston, they performed a number of favorites off of their previous albums before debuting songs from the forthcoming Salt for Salt, the highlight being a new song titled “Shiloh.” It was such an absolute beauty, that audience members immediately yelled out asking for the title.
What strikes you when seeing this band live is just how good they are… at everything. Front man David Lamb and accompanist MorganEve Swain both play multiple instruments. They have created a catalog blues-tinged folk music that flawlessly draws on a number of influences, yet is uniquely their own. They perform with a relaxed and gracious stage presence that makes you want to stay and listen all night. And in addition to all of this, have you ever seen anyone with the ability to grow a beard as spectacular as David Lamb’s?
Brown Bird - Fingers to the Bone by supplyanddemand
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Two songs go in, one comes out. Pick a side.
Also, I have yet to pay this venue a visit, is it good spot? good people, good vibe, good atmosphere?
... man, i hope i win some tickets…
by Jaz Bonnin-Aldatz on Thu May 17, 2012 at 12.27 am from the entry: It's all good, see Fishbone for free at Fête
Looking forward to the show. Would love to win some tix for my pals.
by MC Breath on Wed May 16, 2012 at 07.40 pm from the entry: It's all good, see Fishbone for free at Fête
I’m dying to see him no better place than FETE!!
by Telly on Tue May 15, 2012 at 02.57 pm from the entry: we'll see you (and Talib Kweli) at Fête!
Sound does matter. Viva Le Fete!
by Auquanetta on Tue May 15, 2012 at 01.13 pm from the entry: we'll see you (and Talib Kweli) at Fête!
YES! i MUST go to this show! i was just strollin down the street the other day and saw the poster! SO stoked they’ll be in town.
by Jaz on Mon May 14, 2012 at 05.30 pm from the entry: It's all good, see Fishbone for free at Fête
Fete Forever!!
by Tabitha on Mon May 14, 2012 at 05.08 pm from the entry: we'll see you (and Talib Kweli) at Fête!
Congratulations and thank you to Fete for bringing talent to Providence! We needed this venue and vibe. Bless.
oh and I’d love to win tickets; its my boyfriends bday:D
by Ellen on Mon May 14, 2012 at 07.23 am from the entry: we'll see you (and Talib Kweli) at Fête!
awesome. pics and write up.
jealous!