My concert intake was down again this year. I hit 41 shows in 2014 — still an admirable number — but far from the almost 80 I indulged in during 2012. As I’ve noted in other posts, many shows I would have attended, such as Ryan Adams and the RAA, fell on nights where personal responsibilities and commitments took priority. I’m getting older, and my kids are getting older, so the shift isn’t unexpected. I’m glad I made it to so many. The following eight, in alphabetical order, stood out:
The Drive-By Truckers w/ Blitzen Trapper, 3/25/2014, The Vogue — I suppose the Truckers are likely to make this list every year they hit Indy. They’re just that good live. Touring behind their strongest album in a while, the show had extra punch.
Future Islands w/ Operators, 8/9/2014, The Vogue — If I were inclined to rank them, this show would likely take the top spot. A band at the peak of its power, a lively crowd, and a great opener — Dan Boeckner’s Operators were fantastic — made this one memorable.
The Hold Steady w/ Deer Tick, 4/25/2014, The Vogue — What I said about the Truckers also applies to the Hold Steady. They’re always great live. I was on the fence with their new record, Teeth Dreams, before this show. The April performance sold me and got me listening to the album in a new light. I’d seen Deer Tick a few times before, but I didn’t get it until now.
Jenny Lewis w/ Apache Relay, 7/31/2014, Old National Centre — Jenny Lewis and her crew put on one of the best sounding shows of the year. Touring behind her best record also helped.
Neko Case w/ Thao and the Get Down Stay Down, 1/30/2014, The Vogue — Neko’s voice gives me shivers. With a crack band behind her and a really strong set list, the night was golden.
Songs Molina: A Memorial Electric Tribute — The late, great Jason Molina’s band mates, along with guests like Hiss Golden Messenger’s M.C. Taylor, tore through a fantastic selection of Songs:Ohia and Magnolia Electric Co tracks. Unforgettable.
Spoon w/ Hamilton Leithauser, 9/12/2014, Old National Centre — Spoon got back their mojo. ONC was electric that night.
World Party, 6/7/2014, The HiFi — I still can’t believe I saw this band — 20 years after its heyday — in such an intimate venue.
What were your top shows, Indy?
Addendum: Somehow I overlooked the Springsteen show in Cincinnati back in April. Maybe I just took it for granted, or maybe I was just thinking of Indy shows. Whatever the reason, no best concerts list would be complete without mentioning his appearance. He was incredible.