Kurt Samuel Vile is an American guitarist, singer, songwriter, producer and former lead guitarist for the band The War on Drugs. His latest solo album is called b’lieve i’m goin down which Kurt describes as “All over the place…that’s where I’m at now”.
Kurt is in Adelaide as part of the Adelaide Festival and playing two shows at the Riverbank Palais in Elder Park. He played a solo set with his long hair and diminutive figure on stage, dwarfed by the buildings in the distance behind him. However it was the perfect setting for a Kurt Vie solo set.
Kurt slips on stage and starts the chords to Feel My Pain, his hair covering his face. His voice was a mixture of Lou Reed and a young Bob Dylan. There was no doubting his guitar playing ability as he played, strummed and picked magnificently all night. For one song he even brought out and played a banjo.
Songs ranged from his whole career with four being played off his latest album, including of course Pretty Pimpin’ which was a major hit for him in the U.S.A. We also got Dust Bunnies and Stand Inside from his latest album as well as older tracks in Walkin on a Pretty Day, Peepin’ Tomboy and He’s Alright.
The crowd obviously knew Kurt’s work and were extremely enthusiastic all evening. He spoke little between songs, letting the music do the talking.
While I enjoyed the show, I found his singing and guitar playing in need of a band to support him and fill out the sound. On some songs he did use a backing track and it was these songs that were the pick of the evening.
Overall though, a very enjoyable evening of music at the wonderful Riverbank Palais.
Words Geoff Jenke
No Comments