Concert Review: Wintersleep Awakens Listeners Through Heart
Wintersleep is a Canadian band whose newest album, The Great Detachment, is a heartfelt hit. The band has already established itself as alternative rockers aiming to tackle subjects of oppression, political injustice, and human turmoil. Their recent single, “Amerika,” was a stance against political cruelty and economic inequality. Imagine my humbling surprise, to see a powerful band with a cause just be a group of cool, approachable guys.
Wintersleep is extremely talented. When you see them live, they do not play with their hands but play with their hearts. There is an innate love for their being on stage, which is shown by their moments of coyness. That night the crowd was enamored with the band and could not stop cheering for their presence. It is no wonder the fans were excited, since songs like, “Oblivion,” “Santa Fe,” and “Territory” have a very unique, circular effect to them. When they play, you feel like you are on a carousel of music: being spun into you inner thoughts and questions of existentialism. This cool, spinning effect makes their lyrics, and Paul Murphy’s soulful voice, breeze through you. Murphy’s voice especially, has a windy effect as it feels so gentle upon your spirit. I was moved by his humble reception to the point of shyness at his fans’ warmth. It was as if he was surprised and unaware that his talent was loved.
In total, Wintersleep is filled with awesome musicians. Jon Samuel is a star in both keyboards and backing vocals. His harmonies with Murphy make every moment better, and his joy at playing the keys is absolutely infectious. Loel Campbell is a furiously endearing drummer whom drives his drumsticks through the instrument like he holds a passionate grudge. Meanwhile, Tim D’eon and Mike Bigelow are some of the best guitarists you will see. They are so intimately connected and casual about their musicianship that you cannot keep your eyes off of them. They are very insular when they play, as if they are having a private conversation with their guitars and we, the audience, are eavesdropping. Yet, we know from the sounds they emanate that their guitar/guitarist conversations are highly intellectual. Overall, the charm of this band comes, again, from how blissfully unaware they are of their deserving.
I have said it in previous reviews that humility and openness are the keys to music, especially during live concerts. Fans go to see bands with the idea that they are meeting the song that helps them get over insecurities and daily struggles. Wintersleep especially has those fans because their lyrics are like potent hits of human wisdom; they never fail to capture our essence and works. It was amazing to see them equally open and charmed by their fans’ support. It truly elevated the live experience, and made everyone feel like the band they loved felt the same way for them. That type of kind reciprocity is what has gotten Wintersleep to their international success and 6 studio albums. I had mentioned The Great Detachment as an album to look out for, but now I can add Wintersleep’s concerts, as well.
Check out their official website here.
Running Time: 1 Hour
Wintersleep performed for one night only on May 13, 2016 at Rough Trade NYC in Brooklyn. For more information on upcoming events, click here.
