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Concert Fri Mar 30 2012
Review: Bowerbirds @ Lincoln Hall, 3/29
[This review and photos come to us from reader Rachel Angres.]
Following the energetic set by opening band Dry The River, there was a sense of disjointedness as Bowerbirds began. The stage was somber — in mood and lighting. The first few songs were hurried; Beth switched from keys to accordion as if it was a game of "capture the flag." Phil sang in his own timing, as the percussion rushed the songs into an abrupt ending.
Eventually, seemingly after realizing how loyal and forgiving the fans were, all five members of Bowerbirds loosened up and began to sing and play in synchronic bliss. Their faces relaxed and their eyes closed slightly. It felt as if the band had a need to share their emotional tie with each song, a longing to express their life stories through music. The enchanting harmonics of Beth Tacular's voice, soothed the rugged tenor of her counterpart — and real-life love — Phillip Moore was as beguiling as it was symphonic.
At least a half a dozen times during the set, they mentioned the recent release of their latest record, The Clearing, as if to forewarn the audience that they may not recognize the sound — but to also assure them they will love it. In fact, it was not the popular track "Northern Lights" off their debut album Upper Air that riled up the crowd the most, but a simple and elegant song titled "Stitch The Hem" from The Clearing that excited them.
Phil, as lead vocalist and guitarist, did not say much between songs. He mentioned that he was from Iowa, almost begrudgingly, and some audience members cheered while others empathized. "I have not been happy playing a show every night for months straight, but tonight — here in Chicago — I am happy," Phil said with sincerity. Proud to be Midwestern and perhaps in someway play a part in a near flawless, bucolic and joyous set.
-Rachel Angres
Rachel / March 31, 2012 12:40 PM
I get to see Dry The River tonight at the Fine Line in Minneapolis! I hope their show is as energetic as it was with Bowerbirds. They seem like such a fun group! http://bit.ly/FQ6r1z