You would be hard pressed to find better musicians working in - well - any genre really. It was inspiring, exhilarating, exhausting, and an experience I felt very fortunate get to experience. In the presence of greatness.
Sometimes they get pretty out there, and just when it becomes unsettlingly so, they yank it back into a mainstream bluegrass feel that is searingly tight and exciting.
I'd love to see them break out of their someone somber demeanour (except Chris Thile, who embodies the music completely in his face and movement.). The banjo player especially - never cracked a smile. But of course, with that level of skill he's above reproach. Plus, they were likely exhausted. To play at the level they do - EVERY night....hard to imagine.
Chan Centre For The Performing Arts @
- Vancouver @
- Sat, Nov 24, 2012 @
Favourite moment: For the encore Chris came out and played a stellar Bach piece acoustically. It was so quiet in the room of 800 we were barely breathing. @
Opening act(s): The Mike Carton Kids - a perfect fit to open. Equally exceptional musicianship. Totally charming, engaging and HILARIOUS. Very dry sense of humour and uttlerly loveable. @