Just two shows on the docket this year, linking this year with 1996 as the only year with two shows since my concert attending career began (with Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1993). Those two shows in '96, by the way, were The Tragically Hip (in North Carolina of all places, but a band I still listen to) and Dave Matthews (who I now hear in grocery stores and at gas stations). Since '96 I have flipped my live music situation and play more shows than I attend. When I am asked to join Lynyrd Skynyrd, the circle will be complete. Anyway, let the (brief) round up begin:
*2.22.14: Band Of Horses @ State Theater (Ithaca)
First time seeing this band but at a familiar venue. The band was on an acoustic tour, sounded good, and played all the hits. The show was sold out, and I was in the upper level of the balcony so the intimacy of the event was a bit lost in the space. The informal, unplugged, and casual nature of the performance lends itself to an intimate setting, so other than feeling distant from the action, the show was good.
(that video is a significantly closer view than from my seat)
*9.24.14: Tweedy @ State Theater (Ithaca)
Having seen a number of WILCO shows (that number being about 20) I have long hoped for the band to visit Ithaca. Though not the full band, it was cool to see Tweedy and his band (which includes his son, Spencer, on drums) supporting his recently released album Sukierae. Tweedy played with his band for the first set, then did a set of WILCO classics, and brought everyone back for the encore, which included a few covers (including Give Back The Key To My Heart...that video is not from the Ithaca show but provides an opportunity to check out the smooth moves of the bass player, which were a highlight). The show was mellow, had a great setlist (always great to hear solo versions of Spiders, I Am Trying To Break Your Heart, Hesitating Beauty, and so on), and showcased the material from Sukierae, which was a Low Key grower in 2014. Another highlight was this cover, that has been a staple on the tour:
So that's all for shows in 2014 and the Concert Calendar for 2015 is still pending updates...
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