Sometimes I arrive at a show circuitously. 2024 Green River fest highlight Bonny Light Horseman is an indie folk power trio anchored by songbird Anais Mitchell. Another third of that group is Eric D. Johnson, a long haired axe wielder with great vocal harmony chops. Johnson fronts his own group, Chicago’s Fruit Bats. I arrive early to catch most of opener Minor Moon. Turns out the lead Sam (there are three Sams and a bass playing Meredith) grew up in West Hartford and played the no alcohol Space venue to some enthusiastic aunts and uncles back in the day. A well crafted set of indie pop nuggets ensued. The playing was assured and lead Sam had a good way with the audience. Next up was the Fruit Bats. Johnson was definitely in charge and was joined by expert musicians on lead guitar, drums, bass, and keys. The music was familiar and soothing which explained the sold out 50/50 male to female crowd. Johnson cites The Byrds and The Kinks as influences but I heard a lot of Jayhawks in this mix. Tight four minute song structure backed by thoughtful lyrics spilled from Johnson. His vocals had a slight helium inflection which was not annoying, but charming. I’m not too familiar with the catalog, but the sold out crowd sung along with most tunes. Johnson was engaging, even hopping off stage at one point and belting out a tune with the crowd. Eric’s signature hair gets swung around like he was in Queensryche. Enjoyable show for a sweltering August night.
No comments:
Post a Comment