The tour bus must be pretty full on this latest Iron and Wine tour with Sam Beam and this 12 band members on board.
A more expanded band than last time out and accordingly a bigger sound which is driven by the string section and the dancing horns in equal measure as the evening progresses. Sam is a charming man, very appreciative of people spending their time at one of his gigs, and as usual was in a good mood. This becomes quite infectious and means a very relaxed atmosphere at his shows.
He seemed impressed, even slightly overawed by the venue and repeatedly asked whether the audience “came to many gigs here”? (Which, we Rock Club folks, answered in the affirmative). When one punter shouted out that he had seen Ryan Adams here, that then started Sam off jokingly seeking comparisons between his music and Ryan’s.
With a new record out, Iron and Wine supporters seem to be getting dragged into two camps; one enjoying the solo output and one more enjoying the bigger band and funky sound. Yes, Iron and Wine does funk, soul, jazz and all point in-between when in full band mode.
Fans of the earlier, less bombastic albums were catered for mid-set when the band left the stage to leave Sam alone with his acoustic guitar, and once again in the encore. The latter, a haunting solo take on 'Sodom South Georgia' from the 'Our Endless Numbered Days' album closed the evening after two hours and saw us leaving the venue with big smiles on our faces'.
Pete & Matt
Set List
The Desert Babbler
Carousel
Kingdom of the Animals
Tree by the River
Grass Widows
Sixteen, Maybe Less
Belated Promise Ring
Such
Resurrection Fern
Boy with a Coin
Innocent Bones
Debris (Faces cover)
Caught in the Briars
Jezebel
Grace for Saints and Ramblers
Passing Afternoon
Low Light Buddy of Mine
Lean Into the Light Play Video
Your Fake Name Is Good Enough for Me
Encore:
