On a wild and stormy evening, Sydney's Enmore Theatre played host to the only side show from of Band Of Horses' A Day On The Green” Australian shows.
With a classic set list and a crowd ready to go from start to finish, the show highlighted the undeniable live energy Band Of Horses still have, despite an awkward end to their 2016 tour which the band well and truly made up for tonight (15 January).Supporting were Sydney's own Fait Accompli, whose fusion of soul and punk brought a great energy to the room and their live performance was a testament to their passion, and their ability to connect with an audience. If you have a chance to catch these guys live and show them some local support, don't hesitate.
Fait Accompli - image © AH Imagery
With thunder booming in the background and the Enmore's foyer lighting up with lightning, it was time for Band Of Horses to take the stage. The night kicked off with frontman Ben Bridwell taking the stage for an acoustic, raw version of 'St. Augustine' setting the perfect tone for what was to come.
Next up was 'Monsters', a track that's always been a fan favourite. It felt like the walls of the Enmore had expanded with the energy of the music, and by this point, the crowd was fully immersed, singing along to every word.
Their catalog continued with 'Snow Fall' aka 'The First Song'; it might not be one of the most high-energy tracks in Band Of Horses' repertoire, but live, it is undoubtedly one of their most emotionally charged. Then it was on to classics like 'Laredo', 'No One's Gonna Love You', 'Islands On The Coast' and 'Ode To LRC'.
Band Of Horses - image © AH Imagery
The band closed out the main set with the iconic 'The Funeral', which remains one of their most powerful tracks. From the first chord, it was what the audience had been waiting for and was an unforgettable moment for the fans who've been waiting for a quality BOH show since 2016.
After a brief exit, Band Of Horses returned delivering a passionate cover of INXS's 'Never Tear Us Apart'. The song fit surprisingly well within their catalog, with Ben's distinctive voice adding an emotional layer to the classic '80s anthem. The crowd erupted in appreciation, making it clear this was a crowd-pleaser and respect was given to an Australian anthem.
Closing out a brilliant night, the lights dimmed and the familiar guitar riff of 'The General Specific' echoed through the venue, immediately drawing the crowd's attention, bringing a wave of nostalgia, and yet, when played live, it somehow still feels fresh and has an infectious energy.
Band Of Horses - image © AH Imagery
Overall, Band Of Horses' live performance at Enmore Theatre was a testament to their ability to create moments of magic in a live setting. Each song was delivered with passion and it was a night that captured the heart and soul of what makes Band Of Horses loved so deeply by their fans.
If you braved the wild and crazy weather to be there, you were part of something special. Band Of Horses completely redeemed themselves and rid the ghosts of tours past. Tonight's Enmore gig will definitely be remembered!
- written by Amy Halpin
More photos from the concert.
