I don’t like to post novels for reviews on here. I have a lot to say about the show, so bear with :)
TLDR: Go see this band for $25 while you can because they are approaching bigger things quickly, and this show is a perfect example why.
I’m not sure if this was a true, transformative show for the band, or if it’s the first one I’ve witnessed. It certainly felt like we weren’t in Kansas, anymore. Something about seeing them own the heck out of a large, nice, room with a huge stage…. The band was feeling it, embracing it, loving it. The crowd was reciprocating – we were rowdy to be sure. I can’t, without at least a tiny bit of bias, say if it translates to the recording. Their music has always told me Spafford was destined for big things. This second set showed me that those big things are quickly becoming a reality. They deserve every bit of it and I’m so happy for them.
So, yeah, the music… In short…
All I can say is if you’re struggling to get through your housework, yard work, work-work – whatever. Throw on this second set and watch your efficiency increase 10-fold. My highlight was Left On the Runway – that was unexpected and heartfelt…more on that in a moment.
In long…
1st set jams:
Thieves gets after it early and settles in a nice, team groove with all members pushing and pulling. BDF settles into a nice groove with Cory doing his thing over the top. Backloaded jam with Nick and Jordan driving and Brian building with Cory.
2nd set:
My goodness gracious! What a treat this was to (re)listen to. The surprise of Watermelon Man. The progressively dissonant (1st) Taco – featuring excellent work from all members of the band at various points. This is what musical communication, patience, and total control sounds like. No rush building into the Left on the Runway; just a perfect transition. Speaking of Left on the Runway… Standard fare at first. Did you think this was your “breather” song? Think again. They, intentionally and gently, California Roll their way through the proper ending of the song for the sake of a soaring, blissful peak. I believe this is the first time(?) the took the song out for a longer walk, and they make it work – really, really, well. A seamless, patient, slide back into Taco with some choice Cory on the B3 (?) and another hose-like peak from Brian.
I was shocked when they dropped into Weasel. Could this setlist be anymore stacked? JFC. For a “house” beat, this version has a TON of space in it. Something they are the masters of – and have been for a long time.
Trying to guess what the encore would be after set 2, I turned to my buddy and said “they’ve already doused this place in gasoline. Do they come out and light a match with ‘Ain’t that Wrong’ and burn the place down entirely?” His response? “pffswwsssshw” – knowing my buddy well, this meant “I can’t fathom what that would do to this place but yes, please.”. The venue ultimately lives to see another day but, man, I wouldn’t have been surprised to see it spontaneously combust during the encore.
