Stray Birds @ NAC
Bright stars of Americana deliver another great set.
Eighteen months on from a triumphant show at NAC, Pennsylvania's Stray Birds return and deliver the goods.
Now, I don't want to get technical but the set up needs a mention. There is no backline and, so far as I could see, no monitors. Instead, the stage is taken up with the double bass, violin, mandolin and a trio of guitars. All three members of the band cluster around a single vocal mic to sing lead and harmony vox. It is a simple but effective look.
Maya plays guitar and violin, Oliver is on guitar, violin and mandolin, whilst Charlie takes on the double-bass. Between songs, all three are amusing and entertaining, with some humorous banter. The set includes songs from their self-titled debut, 2014’s Best Medicine and covers set Echo Sessions. Opener Adelaide and Best Medicine’s title track stand out, along with covers of Loretta and Blue Yodel #7. A medley of Appalachian fiddle tunes from the debut brought things to a rousing close.
This is nothing new or original but it is done with a warmth, soul, humour and passion that are missing from too much Americana - hell from too much music full stop. Another great set and, once again, Stray Birds are highly recommended.
9/10
