Evening Hymns (Summerworks Theatre, Aug 17/12)

Rushing in from the airport I would not let the delays after delays prevent me from missing this show. Thankfully I was on the list and gained access to the sold-out performance only three songs into it - in time for early stand-out You and Jake. My introduction to Jonas' music had been through a live show over a year ago but since then I have taken to 2009's Spirit Guides while eagerly anticipating what is now Spectral Dusk. This showcase had a much fuller band throughout as they acted as a full seven-piece. Although Jonas' softer and looping work is beautiful on its own, it was quite nice to have these added layers of lushness to the live show. It was super effective on Asleep in the Pews that started out quiet and acoustic but grew in intensity as the drums and trumpet came in. Also amazing what an accordion and violin can add to a song, as they did on Dead Deer - one of a few older songs on the evening, including a fantastic version of Broken Rifle.

The scene was even set with blankets and branches on the stage to give it a country feel in the city and augmented by splendid projected effects made live through lighting and shadows and sparklers and all sorts of things. The sparklers were joined with confetti on a particularly joyous version of new track Cabin in the Burn followed by 'their most summery' Mtn. Song - a beautiful rendition to close the set.

In encore Jonas returned on his own with simply an electric guitar to fill the room one last time with his sweetness in Spectral Dusk. From what I've heard and what I witnessed on this evening these new hymns are worth the wait and my earlier prediction of big things for this band has taken a giant step forward.

Set List
- (Intro)
- (Arrows)
Family Tree
You and Jake
Moon River

Cedars

Asleep in the Pews

Dead Deer

Broken Rifle
Cabin in the Burn

Mountain Song

Encore

Spectral Dusk