We spent money on some good seats for this one…and when I say good, I mean, we were front and center. For the Punch Brothers? TOTALLY worth it.
We’ve seen the Punch Brothers multiple times now, but each time provides a new experience, each equally enjoyable. My last dance with the folk professionals was at the holy Ryman in Nashville. And even from the (literal) last row of the auditorium, the electricity of their performance was most certainly felt – my cheeks hurt from smiling at the end. Fast forward 6 months, and 6 rows deep, and the same shit-eating grin could be seen across my face as I imbibed the tactful overlay of stringed instruments, perfectly meshed voices and cicadas from Iroquois Park.
Each member of this bluegrass quintet adds so much to the band’s overall performance, but the way they so naturally blend together makes it difficult to notice. Chris Thile ultimately stands out because of the striking vocals he provides on every song, but Gabe Witcher, Noam Pikelny, Chris Eldridge and Paul Kowert are each majestic in their own right. Thanks to the band for the free download of their latest production, The Phosphorescent Blues, which was included with the purchase of our Ryman tickets last March. It seems that everyone, myself included, has taken to this newest musical contribution, but I’ll share a secret: seeing them perform their stuff live takes the cake.
We struggled with the idea of sitting during their performance, but even our best efforts to start a vertical movement at the Iroquois Amphitheater were to no avail. The edge of my seat was just fine, though.
-Aubrey
Live Music Louisville 