Neko Case at Workplay
This weekend I saw Neko Case in concert at WorkPlay, which is a really cool venue by itself. The building is a converted warehouse, and the people at WorkPlay have made it very versatile. The concept is a place for creative people to come to work and to play, so they offer places to film or record as well as see attractions. I saw Gigantic (A Tale of Two Johns) there years ago, but this was my first time to watch a live performance there. The front area has a lobby and a little bar, and then divides into sections. Around 250 to 400 can stand and comfortably watch in the room that we watched the concert.
The intimate setting made it easy to see and hear Neko, even when she spoke conversationally. Her gorgeous red curls were bouncing and glowing under the spotlight. She seemed very comfortable in her black asymmetrical tee shirt and blue jeans, but she immediately apologized for wearing her sneakers on stage, telling us she meant no disrespect, but was just running late. She and the backup singer, Kelly Hogan decided to perform barefoot so that Neko wouldn’t feel old. The banter was entertaining and easy, despite warnings of nervousness because they were playing mostly new songs off of Middle Cyclone.
When she started singing, the room was entranced. If she missed any of the chords she was playing, I doubt many people noticed, because her voice was so expressive and powerful. Since she was promoting her new album, I hadn’t heard much of what they played ahead of time, which was a treat. The music was moody and soulful with beautiful lyrics backed by a strong voice. That’s the best kind of country. It does seem that Middle Cyclone is a gentler album than the more passionate, turbulent music I expected, but I’ll admit that’s based solely on Saturday’s performance. She could very well have simply been blissed out from eating the Dutch Baby at the Original Pancake House in 5 points earlier. Here is the very cute video for “People Got A Lotta Nerve,” which was easily the poppiest song of the whole evening.
I especially want to thank Sarah, who sold us tickets she didn’t use. I had been hearing the ads on the radio for the concert and just pining away for a chance to go. Sarah is the person who introduced me to Neko Case a few years ago, anyway, so she’s doubly responsible for the evening. Thanks, Sarah!
I’m so jealous you got to see her! If I had known about it in time I would’ve totally gone. I’ve loved her ever since I started listening to The New Pornographers about 5 or 6 years ago. I’m glad you enjoyed the show. Her new album is incredible, I think.
Bon Iver is playing Workplay on June 3rd. I believe that’s the next show I’ll be attending there. I’ve seen two shows there already and I think it’s a great venue. There are two separate concert halls in Workplay. I’ve only been in the split-level one with plenty of table-seating. I love it.
It really was great. It was nice to go to a small-stage concert for someone like her. I think that a small stage is so much better for really getting a feel for an artist. Amphitheaters and stadiums are really no way to have a concert.
You are so very welcome. And I’m so glad you enjoyed it in our stead. If we enjoyed Middle Cyclone more, I’m sure I would’ve fought to go, but it’s just too out there for me. Maybe in a few more listens I’ll enjoy it more, but right now I spend a whole lot of my Neko time listening to Blacklisted and The New Pornographer’s Challengers album instead.