On July 15th, Blitzen Trapper, a quintet from Portland, OR, performed for an enthusiastic crowd at The Parish in Austin, TX. The venue was packed, especially considering it was a Monday night. But that doesn’t mean anything in Austin…we’re ready to see music any night of the week. Even Marty Marquis (guitar/keyboards/vocals) pointed that out.
It was Blitzen Trapper’s first “real” show in Austin since 2010 (they don’t count SXSW appearances) and I couldn’t wait for the band’s unique blend of country, folk, pysch, and rock. It was clear they were happy to be back as they treated to fans to an hour and a half of music. It was a great venue to showcase Blitzen Trapper’s harmony and supreme musicianship. This is a band that knows how to play a delicate, heartfelt song and then jump right into a wailing jam. While the set list was diverse, the band sprinkled in quite a few songs from their forthcoming album (due this fall), including “Shine On” and “Heartbreaker.” And of course, the night featured highlights from albums past, including “Black River Kill” “Love the Way You Walk Away” and “Jericho.” About halfway through the set, the band started the familiar favorite “Furr” from the album of the same name, and it was met with screams and an energetic sing-a-long.
Returning for their encore, Eric Earley took the stage to perform a song with only an acoustic guitar and harmonica, before bringing the rest of the band back to end the night with a few more tunes. It was an amazing night of music. Blitzen Trapper also played a special set last night at ACL Live, opening for Belle & Sebastian. As the photos rolled in on Instagram, I regretted not seeing that show as well. Let’s hope the band makes it back through town in support of the upcoming album!
Bonus: We talked with Eric Earley after the band’s set at Paste Magazine’s party during SXSW 2011. Watch the interview below:
– Submitted by Jessica Reed, Social Media