It was another awesome night of live music at Asheville’s Rabbit Rabbit on September 22nd, the former parking lot turned 4500 capacity outdoor music venue. In the last month, the venue has hosted Jack White, Father John Misty, and Ween. It’s a great night for Ashevillians, as Austin’s Shakey Graves is playing another large capacity outdoor show across town.
Meanwhile back at the Double Rabbit, the stage was set for Joy Oladokun. The Nashville-based singer-songwriter and her band, played a short sweet set of songs to open the night. Pulling mostly from her major label debut, In Defense of My Own Happiness her introspective songs carried a smooth Tracey Chapman vibe. She surprised the crowd as she segued “I See America” with a funked up and feedback-drenched version of Nirvana’s infamous “Smells like Teen Spirit.”
My Morning Jacket came on stage and launched into a tour debut, “The Dark,” a number from their very first album The Tennessee Fire. After barely taking a breath, they jumped sixteen years into “Compound Fracture,” from the first of their two Waterfall records. To keep things fresh, they switched up their set list each night, ensuring fans never hear the same show twice. It’s because of this, that they have such a rabid fan base who travel to different shows on a tour. Lead man Jim James looked fit, healthy, and happy to be back on the road where they belonged, after the enforced pandemic break.
After the sun had set, the stage was transformed, bathed in rich purples and golds. From the brand new self-titled album, they ran through “Love Love Love” and the crowd felt embraced as one. The rhythm section of powerhouse drummer, Patrick Hallahan, and bassist Tom Blankenship were tightly locked into a groove. James sashayed across the stage during “Touch me I’m going to scream part 2,” before strapping on his trusty Flying V. The band then exploded into full Pink Floyd mode for the long instrumental ending. James worked the stage during “Wordless Chorus” and even incorporated some king-fu moves. Midway through the song, the stage went black. Suddenly the giant mirrorball above them burst into life. The whole crowd mimicked Jim’s massive falsetto screams; it truly was a spiritual moment. They transitioned into the new song “Least Expected,” complete with an extended keyboard part by Bo Koster. It was reminiscent of The Doors and seemed set to become a live favorite. Lead conductor James captivated the audience on a colorful musical journey. The spotlight shone on Hallahan as the instantly recognizable strains of stone-cold classic “One Big Holiday” began. Guitarist Carl Broemel spent as much time in the air as he did on the ground, whilst bouncing along with the beat.
There was only time for a two-song encore, “Easy Morning Rebel” and “Gideon.” My Morning Jacket brought the evening to a close with James’ voice echoing over the Blue Ridge Parkway and beyond.
