What a night! I’ve seen dozens of concerts in Charleston, South Carolina, but this one takes the cake! Wilder Woods was ON FIRE, and the show couldn’t have been better–maybe longer, but really, is it ever enough?! About a thousand seats were filled in Charleston Music Hall on Sunday night, and it made me wonder if Wilder Woods could have sold out a second night or a bigger venue. This show was highly anticipated by locals, and it was a diverse crowd!
Indie and soul singer HAFFWAY kicked off the night with some originals, an unreleased song, and a Ray LaMontagne cover that made the crowd swoon. He asked the audience for their input: Ray LaMontagne or Bruce Springsteen? The unanimous vote from the audience totally stoked me. HAFFWAY has a fantastic way of working a crowd; he had people laughing one minute and completely entranced a second later with his haunting melodies. He joked that he was making the crowd too sad with his dramatic lyrics, but he got a good laugh out of everyone when he referred to Charleston as Charlotte a few times before someone shouted, “Wrong city!”. HAFFWAY’s debut album, Prequel, came out last year, and the song I recommend you add to your playlist is called “Whatever He’s On.”
The main event: Wilder Woods, A.K.A. Bear Rinehart, the cofounder and lead singer of NEEDTOBREATHE. Holy Moly! This guy brought it. He came out with a full band, great lighting, a cool set, and vocals I’m sure could be heard down King Street! For two hours, Woods had everybody on their feet, dancing, singing, yelling, and bringing some to tears with songs like “Mary, You’re Wrong” and “Hide Anymore.” He’s added a fantastic cover to his set list this tour, “She Talks to Angels” by the Black Crowes, and it’s a fan favorite.
Somehow, Woods’ voice has just gotten better over the years, and I don’t always agree with a solo jump, but this was such a powerful move by the talented artist. The singer, songwriter, and guitarist just released his third album, Curioso, last month, and it is worth a listen (and a download). The album features Maggie Rose, Anna Graves, and My Morning Jacket’s Jim James. A great interview with Glide Magazine gives some insight into the inspiration and motivation behind the new music. Check it out here.
