We will never shy away from an Instagram contest for tickets, so thanks to Living Room Series for hooking us up with seats to the sold out Neutral Milk Hotel show. For the Iroquois Amphitheater’s first show of the season, a rainy and cold one at that, the turn out and support for Neutral Milk Hotel was outstanding. The band recently announced that this would be their final tour together for what may be some time, so wherever they are going, people are coming out in droves to catch this historic run. I will admit I have very limited experience with their music, but from this live show I can understand why people are so into what they do. Their songs are not overt jams, but the instrumentation and combination of said instruments make the energy overflow. And, not too many bands include saws as main-stay instruments.
Sean Rowe was also in town and a few friends were headed there, so we of course had to concert hop over to Zanzabar. The rustic baritone played a bare set for a large crowd, and definitely gained some fans on the night. His set was intimate and simple in structure, but highlighted his new songs as well as old ones. Rowe plays his guitar, harmonica and sings with such vigor that keeps his audience engaged throughout a set (and makes taking quality photos a difficult task.) We just missed him last summer at the final WFPK Waterfront Wednesday of the season, so I’m glad we caught him this time around. Although we were too late for the opener, our friend said that Matthew Fowler was a very cool, talented young man- going to have to catch him next time he is in town.
Getting to all of these shows can sometimes be a little hectic, but doing so means we won’t miss any of the great acts that come through town.
-Aubrey
Live Music Louisville 