Evening Hymns @Horseshoe (April 28)

Leaving the hubbub of the Horseshoe's front room I found a captive, silent audience in an oft chatty space. Rightfully so, everyone was drawn in by the bearded man laying impassioned lyrics over light electric guitar notes. As it turned out this was the opening song from the man behind Evening Hymns. Joining him after this were a female, subtle bassist with backing vocals, the ginger D'urberville (yes I know the D'urbs are dead) on keys and special guest Wooden Sky guitarist as well as a friend who sat in on the odd song with soft tipped drumsticks. The music was all new to me and I found it to be indie music that was slightly dark and downbeat in a beautiful way. Truthfully I could hear tender Counting Crows moments primarily in the lead vocals, and this was a positive. A trumpeter joined for a few tracks and brought something extra to each one. In finale everyone left the stage again and the bearded fellow worked the loops slowly building up guitar, then vocals, followed by keys and surprisingly danceable synths before the stage flooded again and all the aforementioned plus the Acorn singer repeated out a line. A really gorgeous and satisfying set from an artist and group to look out for.