There was
enough credit in the Kacey Musgraves bank to forgive a slow start to the GOLDEN
HOUR era. While others instantly eulogised over the album, the title of the opening track
has never been more pertinent when getting to grips with a new record. It was
also apt that ‘Slow Burn’ fires the
opening salvo on dates during the Oh, What a World Tour, which is currently
rolling around venues in the UK. For the latest visit to Birmingham, the
entourage headed across town to the Academy and a renewal with fans in a venue
steeped in the city’s musical heritage, long before the corporate world stepped
in. An element of curiosity will always surround the music of Kacey Musgraves: a maverick, independent or just another act out to fluidly maximise exposure.
One constant is always the inspirational depth to her music and an ability to
match interesting facets with excellence. For two hours this evening we
witnessed an artist perfecting the art of smooth entertainment, capable of
engineering the full range of gear changes, while exuding complete control of
the proceedings
The band, a
six-piece operation and a little more conservatively dressed than on previous
tours, played the perfect foil to the glitz and sparkle of Kacey. Easing
between the more studio-based sounds of GOLDEN HOUR and the roots focus
when the country ‘A’ game ascended, they probably had their finest moment when
let off the leash for the final throes of ‘Die
Fun’.
The country
content (yes, there was still plenty to keep Kacey in credit column) increased
when the band re-assembled in acoustic mode at the front of the stage to
deliver ‘Oh, What a World’, ‘Family is Family’ and the first half of
‘Love is a Wild Thing’. The first of
this trio proved interesting as it is one of the more controversial tracks on
the new album from a production standpoint, but tonight it had its roots
credentials reclaimed. The final song during this segment is the most acclaimed
on GOLDEN HOUR, praised by fellow songwriters as a stellar piece of song
writing. Kacey introduced it as the moment when finding love was unexpected and
used the second half of the song to usher the band back into standard
formation.
Joining a
raft of tracks already mentioned as key high spots are five more from a set
that just about surpassed the hour forty mark. ‘Follow Your Arrow’ is staple Kacey fare and forever cements in the
pre-encore singalong slot. ‘Rainbow’
is one of the most beautiful songs she has recorded and its spot opening the
encore was perfectly suited with Kacey just accompanied by a band member on
piano.
The track
rapidly ascending as a favourite on the new album is ‘Happy & Sad’ and the live version provided further
confirmation. Whatever thoughts arose concerning the direction of the new album
ultimately override by the sheer quality of the songs and it has been an
absorbing experience giving the record room to prosper. On the other hand, it
is always enjoyable to listen to what Kacey does best, with ‘High Time’ and ‘It Is What It Is’ proving timely reminders.
While not
being the most charismatic and emotive performer on stage, there is an
endearing charm to Kacey Musgraves. Vocally she is competent enough to hold sway
and probably peaked on that front with the added feeling observed to ‘Space Cowboy’. For a round of fun at the
end, she was joined by opening act Sophie from Soccer Mommy to duet on a cover
of the NSYNC song ‘Tearin’ Up My Heart’
(research needed to name this track!), and the disco tune ‘High Horse’ either sent some folks home happy or others heading for
a swift exit. Take your pick.
It was
interesting that Nashville-based indie rock band Soccer Mommy were invited to
open on this tour, almost confirming the distant stance being taken from
country music. They played a forty-minute opening stint, and paraded as your
usual four-piece combo with a lite twangy electric sound. The highlight was a
short segment when Sophie played solo for a few tunes, including a different
take on Springsteen’s ‘I’m on Fire’. At this point, there was a touch of Phoebe
Bridgers about her. By the way, check Phoebe out if you have not heard her
and like a bit of deep feeling indie Americana.
This was
the fourth time seeing Kacey Musgraves live and probably the best yet. The
performance housed an artist in control and one who works within the limit of
their strengths. These obviously lie in the stunning songs that she brings to
the table and the affable way they present, along with the top musicians she
works with. Horizons are expansive for this native of Golden Texas and who
knows where Kacey Musgraves will drift next. One suspects a tenuous tether to
country music will always exist and it will be of no surprise if her career evolves
into one of influence. This performance upon a return to the only Birmingham
that really counts was absolutely adorable and a major advert for the magnetic
attraction of top quality live music from an artist who clearly matters.