by Jon Bauer
A few years ago, my friend Kostas told me that I MUST see Orville Peck. All my photographer friends were buzzing about him too. Seemed kinda country to me – not my favorite genre, and “what’s with the gimmicky mask?” – I’ll just pass.
As time went on, and I started to hear Orville Peck more and more, I realized that my initial thoughts about his music were very wrong. This is not your typical country music. Firstly, there’s his voice – a deep, resonant, baritone, emotive punch you in the gut – in a good way. And I could hear how heartfelt his lyrics were – often exploring themes of love, loss, and longing, delivered with a raw vulnerability. I could tell that he incorporated a blend of traditional and modern sounds. I heard elements of classic Americana music (sorta Hank Williams meets Elvis) while also incorporating contemporary influences. Many of his songs evoke a sense of longing and sadness, often with a touch of nostalgia. His choice to remain anonymous adds an air of intrigue and mystery to his music. Ok, I’ll check out his show – so glad I did.
Peck seemed very at home in San Francisco and many in the audience dressed for the show. On the street before the show, a woman walking by remarked “wow – look at all these urban cowboys!” One particularly memorable moment of the night had Peck handing out roses to fans in the audience that caught his eye. The audiences excitement building with each distributed floral gift.
In the end – I was just wrong about Orville Peck. This night was special and spectacular. I truly loved it. Thank you, Kostas.
Opening for Orville was South Carolina’s Nikki Lane (Nicole Lane Frady) – she and her band played a handful of more classical country songs, including many from their recent (2022) release Denim & Diamonds.
Before Nikki took the stage, the night started with Emily Nenni and her band. They played a set that was a lot more country than the other two performers, but the songs were poignant and melodic – I still enjoyed it despite my country-music-phobia.
What a beautiful and enlightening night.
Orville Peck:
Nikki Lane:
Emily Nenni:
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