Saturday, April 10, 2010

Reviews:: Daniel, Fred & Julie @ The North Street Church

Honestly, last night the music we heard couldn't have been much better. Starting with a set from Baby Eagle (apologies to Laura Peek for missing the set), the tiny, North End church was packed with fans of the talented musicians, no one sure how a set from three friends playing classic songs would unfold.

What we heard was memorable. Daniel Romano, Fred Squire and Julie Doiron played with smiles on their faces and a relaxed demeanor. Honest harmonies and guitar work more than overshadowed the slight laughs when the odd lyric was missed or chord progression was forgotten. Daniel, Julie and Fred also took their turn playing songs from their other projects - including new songs from Julie and Daniel harmonizing with band mate Spencer Burton.

For me though, the highlight was Fred - side note: points to Mr. Squire for style, as his blazer, glasses and homemade kerchief (that said Duck Hunting) combination was top shelf - pulling Julie onstage with him to sing Frankie & Albert. This song is on his new EP, available only in a CD-R format at shows, and until last night I had no idea the touching love song was actually Fred's reply to the powerful The Gambler And His Bride from the trio's folk album. The song was made even more poignant when Julie sang Frankie's part as she rests in the gallows, about to die for killing her man. The love that runs through this song is amazing, and it marked the high point in a set that constantly cleared the highest of expectations.

I'll be posting more video later, but enjoy this heartbreaking performance:
Fred Squire (ft. Julie Doiron) - Frankie & Albert