Back in 2008 Josh Tilman was the support for Fleet Foxes (for whom he was playing drums) at Nottingham Trent Uni. so we were aware of his singer/songwriter talent. Then in 2012 at the No Direction Home Festival I saw Father John Misty play tunes from Fear Fun and I was slightly in awe of his stage presence and fine song writing craft, so when his new album and Village Underground date were announced both were pre-ordered/booked knowing this was going to be something special.
But, nothing could have prepared me for the joy that unfolded at The VU! The album is already in my top 10 of 2015 (the gatefold, pop up, tune playing vinyl is a beautiful thing in itself; the horror on my husband's face when I confessed to the cost was priceless!)
The night opened with Birthday Boy Kieran Leonard playing some his new tunes, in front of an already attentive crowd, it was a genteel start for the Rock & Roll mayhem that was about unfold.
The band quickly took their places and FJM arrived, took the mic, teetered on the edge of the stage and ripped into Honeybear, which, as with every one of the tunes from the album, grew tenfold during this live performance. At this moment I thought he was going to play the album through, I would have been more than happy with this but he gave us a full set from both albums.
The variation in song style were highlighted in True Affection and The Ideal Husband (although guillemot-esque, in a good way) which almost raised the roof and it would be an appropriate time to say his supporting band are a class act. The VU stage is by no means large but it held the six of them plus FJM with room for ample strutting, and hip thrusting that had all totally mesmerised. When FJM took a sortee into the crowd there was NOBODY that did not want to reach out and touch him! So many fantastic songs including Strange Encounter, Smiling and Astride Me, Chateau Lobby as well as a Leonard Cohen cover "I'm Your Man" made for an incredible set.
But there is so much more to this guy than a few good tunes, his stagecraft makes for an outstanding performance. The movement encapsulating the mood of every tune, from standing on a drum kit, swaying with his guitar, to telling a few early clappers to "shut up" in a silent moment, which was humorous but with such an edge it was frightening!!
There are already two London dates announced for October and an appearance at the Green Man festival in August lined up although this was one of those gigs where this night may never be surpassed...... but then one should never say never!
Sally @sally_wally
