John Craigie is a one of a kind singer-songwriter, comedian, and storyteller. His well-balanced mix of folk songs and comical stories make for a wonderful evening and that’s absolutely why John Craigie and his audience were all smiles at the State Room for a rare seated show on Wednesday night September 18th.
Out of all the strange things made popular or famous by the internet, I don’t think anything can even come to close to being as awesome as Oliver Tree. The internet meme turned successful Anti-Pop artist sold out The Depot to a crowd of fans ranging from old ladies to little kids wearing his infamous scooter shirts.
Do you ever hear your friends or peers mention a band or solo artist with such reverence and admiration that you start to wonder, even though you feel like you love music more than anyone ever, “How have I not heard of this person/band”? That was me some years ago with Jason Isbell. His name would come up in social circles or I’d be at a concert waiting for a band to come on and I’d hear people mention how they’d seen Jason Isbell live and how any fan of live music needs to see him. When people had asked me, “Have you been to a Jason Isbell concert?” and I’d say that I hadn’t the look of shame and embarrassment for me meant only one thing, I’d better see Jason Isbell live or lose all credibility.
The crowd was forced to part as a casket was brought into the room. Its pallbearers strained under the weight before laying it down next to Kilby Court’s stage. The wildly unexpected sound of an industrial saw ripped through idle chatter—somethingwas breaking free from within the casket. Emerged a figure with dark hair, a blue bandana around his neck, and a face painted ghostly white. Branson Anderson was back from the dead.
Tuesday Night in Salt Lake City brought out dedicated fans to see fast-rising rapper, Tobi Lou. Kilby Court was buzzing and you could feel the excitement of hip hop fans eager to see the new but very talented artist. I had seen Tobi perform as an opener for KYLE about a year ago and was excited to see him headline for the first time.
As Kilby Court’s stage lights began to illuminate the pavement outside its doors, elevator music began to play overhead. The disembodied voice of Bob Ross then filled the room, instructing listeners to “tap the bristles firmly, making little crisscross strokes.” This lighthearted serenade was Morgxn’s introduction, and beautifully contrasted the sorrow of his first song, “Submarine,” which he sang unaccompanied. His isolated vocals hung heavy in the air for a few moments before it became clear why everyone had shown up that night and why Bob Ross was Morgxn’s intro of choice: to experience a little joy.
Morgxn is heading out on his first headlining tour and is playing Kilber Court in Salt Lake City on September 9 after opening up for several acts on tour including Dreamers, X Ambassadors, Robert Delong, ARIZONA and more. His current single “A New Way” is climbing the charts at HOT AC radio, after a top 10 hit called “home” ft Walk The Moon. He also recently performed “A New Way” on Good Morning America!
I had a great time talking with Morgxn as he drove the streets of Hollywood before he set out on this tour. I think his show at Kilby Court is going to be a great time. Here is our conversation. Enjoy!
Last week was the last Twilight Concert Series of the Summer 2019 and everyone seemed to have come out for the night because The Gallivan Center was packed! It only makes sense that the last show of the summer would be so busy. As summer is almost over, people are trying to hold on to the last little bit of it. Santigold was the last performance on this great, summer line up, and she had a giant crowd to perform to! But long even before she went on, the plaza was filled with people having a good time. All the food truck lines were long, people grabbing their beers for a good time, the giant games on the lawn were all occupied, it really was the coolest spot to be at.
The day of Amos Lee’s show at Red Butte Garden Outdoor Concert Series was typical of Salt Lake City at the end of summer. The searing desert sun thoroughly baked the concrete urban sprawl and was beginning to set as I caught a ride with a pedicab from the end of the venue parking lot to the entrance gates. The quick trip made light of my late arrival and I met my first friend of the night. (Thanks Carlos!)
Almost three years to the day, Lord Huron made their triumphant return to Salt Lake City on August 14 at Red Butte Garden Amphitheater. I can’t think of a better pairing than one of my favorite Utah venues with this great American Indie band. When you’re set up in just the right spot, you can see the sun setting over the Salt Lake Valley. It’s a beautiful venue with gorgeous views. Having a soundtrack like Lord Huron mixed in makes for a perfect evening. This was Lord Huron’s first time playing Red Butte Garden and I think they made their mark on the summer concert series.