Freelance Whales @ Mercury Lounge

Very excited to see Freelance Whales live since they have been on itunes repeat here for months, and showcased on the comp. Mercury Lounge was more than sold out but got to experience the musical energy this band gives off. The band members jump from instrument to instrument including banjo, xylophone, accordion and guitars. Although the songs are very rich they have a very playful element attached to it when they incorporate more unusual instruments into their songs. Not all their songs are great, but when they hit their stride it’s hard not to like them. New album out in March during SXSW and I plan to show em my hometown Queens support.

Josh Ritter | Swell Season @ Radio City Music Hall

Very lucky to get front row seats to catch this special show. Josh Ritter played a quick set of only 6 songs but his enthusiasm wasn’t lost on such a large stage. I’m sure he won even more fans tonight.

Swell Season jumped from duets, solo songs, and a full band including The Frames. It was apparent that this has and will become the new incarnation of both bands. Glen & Marketa were humbled and visible overjoyed to be playing at Radio City. They played mainly from the new album which I preferred hearing live. Two songs were dedicated to Kate McGarrigle and a Bruce Springsteen cover of “Drive All Night” which was incredible. Being a long time Frames fan I’m still very happy and proud on what Glen has achieved. This was the best performance I have seen yet. Despite playing almost 3 hours, the band didn’t want to give up the stage, and knowing them I knew they would keep playing. They ended the night with “The Parting Glass” and the lyrics “Good night, and joy be with you all” echoed throughout the night.

SETLIST
Fallen From the Sky
Lies
Low Rising
Feeling the Pull
In These Arms
The Rain
The Moon
If You Want Me
Fantasy Man
Say It To Me Now
Leave
Back Broke
Astral Weeks (Van Morrison Cover)
The Court of Newton (Violin solo by Colm Mac Con Iomaire)
I Have Loved You Wrong
Drive All Night (Bruce Springsteen cover)
Go With Happiness
When Your Mind's Made Up
Encore
Falling Slowly
High Hope
High Horses
Red Chord/The Parting Glass