This is the 3rd time I’ve seen Bishop Allen in the last 2 months and felt they were much looser and relaxed this time around. The songs weren’t as perfect or polished, but they were still upbeat and fun. And they finally played “Eve of Destruction”, albeit a much slower and lackluster version of it.
John Vanderslice has been pretty consistent for putting out an album every year and following up with a successful tour. Although his last album was a terrible mess, his new one “Emerald City” is solid and filled with much more personal songs. Tonight’s live set was great as usual as he is one of the best live acts touring these days. The highlight for me was when Matthew Caws of Nada Surf took the stage to sing a duet with John. No one in the crowd seemed to know who he was. He ended his set in the crowd with an acoustic version of “Keep the Dream Alive” which has become standard close. Afterwords, he stayed around and practically hugged everyone in the crowd.
Pictures from the show.