An amazing performer in an intimate setting made the most of the opportunity. Jonas has been touring the magnificent Spectral Dusk for over a year now and despite being impressed by the album release show, this, the first show of the final leg, made it clear that there is no ceiling for this talented musician. He opened solo, primarily playing his (out of place, shiny,silver-speckled) electric guitar often into loops, while adding from his keyboard and his excellent voice poured into a couple of mics. There is just something about him that is captivating and this night was no different. He worked some more delicate songs like Arrows early, giving a personal intro to his brother who was in attendance and about whom he had written You and Jake. Still by his lonesome he debuted a new song for the very first time live, Light as a Feather, which was very short and may take a couple more listens. All this before building it up with an awesomely layered Mtn Song that built and built as did the glee in the room.
This was only the first half of the set and we'd already experience so much greatness. His performances are intense and exude emotion which really makes for a captivating atmosphere. To aid in this a bass player and opener, Andy Shauf, joined him on the drums. Andy played with great intensity which was much appreciated especially on some of the louder songs that they played in the latter half. Included in this bunch were another two new tracks which may be included in the upcoming album he is to write after this tour completes that will assuredly not be entitled Draft Dodger (as per his banter). Rescue Team was a slight departure from Spectral Dusk that hit a little harder while the other new song followed the Hayden cover (Dynamite Walls) and actually took a few cues from it, which was most definitely a good thing. They actually used this as their exit before we begged Jonas to return and he agreed with one song. Just as he had begun the show he ended it by himself on stage playing the title and final track from Spectral Dusk and leaving us devastated by the music yet elated. That is power in song.
Andy Shauf
To be honest when I first saw Andy play it was a bit of an odd experience which may have lead to my mixed feelings. This time around I didn't have to deal with this and listened more carefully to the oddly literal lyrics in his distinctive voice and appreciated the whole experience a great deal more. The story within Hometown Hero for example paints a very vivid picture in the mind of the listener while still being an enjoyable aural experience. Once again his banter included the odd yet giggle-inducing "does anyone have any questions?" which seems to set people at ease so I guess it does it's job, as does his simple, solo guitar set.
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