Headlining the evening with a solo performance was Ted Leo, who practically had the crowd eating out of his hand from the get go. Playing a healthy mixture of originals and a few covers, Leo didn't let the empty space on stage go to waste. At times it seemed he was engulfing the Mic while belting out lyrics with a fury and passion that only the best of road travelled musicians can conjure up. Yet, in the next moment he'd be standing back near his amp letting his guitar do the rest of the talking - it was quite impressive to see, without a doubt. And the way he bantered with the crowd in between songs added that secret ingredient that made you feel as though you were watching an old friend who just stopped back through town.
Hometown indie trio, the Blind Eyes did an outstanding job in the supporting slot, and it was their set that really got the crowd going. With well crafted songs that subtly build in intensity until they smack you with a hook that'll stick in your ears, they put together as tight of a set as any band you'll see in town. Their guitar and bass lines are thick and have a bit of a power-pop feel, while the drumming hints more along the line of edgy rock 'n' roll. They all play with an extremely tasteful approach, which lets their sound be their swagger....and they walk it well.
All photos by Nate Burrell. See more at my Flickr stream.
