LOS ANGELES, CA- Under the stars at the Hollywood Bowl on July 21st, Los Angelenos were treated to the first in a series of eclectic lineups hosted by KCRW. The evening showcased three diverse artists: Uwade, Sylvan Esso, and Jason Isbell. The night’s emotions were as varied as the performances themselves, with fans gently listening to vulnerable songs, dancing in the aisles, and finally cheering on captivating guitar solos.
Uwade, the first opener, is a young singer new to many in the crowd. Despite this, she won over numerous admirers with her vulnerable lyrics and mesmerizing finger-picking style. Her powerful voice and heartfelt delivery hint at a promising future. Uwade, who recently released her debut EP, has gained recognition for her unique blend of folk and soul. Her music often explores themes of identity and heritage, resonating deeply with listeners. Throughout the evening, her sound felt like a gentle breeze, soothing yet stirring. I found myself wishing to see her perform in an intimate venue like the Troubadour, where her sound could truly pierce the soul.
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Following Uwade’s moving performance, Sylvan Esso took the stage and electrified the 17,000-seat venue with their pulsating electro-pop bass. Amelia Meath’s voice resonated throughout the amphitheater, prompting pockets of fans to start dancing. The duo’s setlist, featuring hits like “Die Young” and “Coffee,” created a wave of energy that prepared the audience for the main act.
Sylvan Esso’s latest album, “No Rules Sandy,” was released in 2022, but they recently rereleased their seminal self-titled album earlier this year, which includes 8 new remixes of fan favorites on that album. Whether it’s their new releases or their old releases, they continue to push the boundaries of their genre, blending electronic beats with heartfelt lyrics. Their mix of new music and old classics ensured everyone had something to bop along to before Jason and the 400 Unit took the stage.
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Jason Isbell is renowned for his songwriting, yet he and the 400 Unit proved to be exceptionally capable musicians, filling their songs—and the gaps between them—with energetic drum solos, blistering keyboard runs, and guitar solos that came alive. They explored the full range of their instruments, from whispers to screams. During a particularly memorable moment, Jason and Sadler engaged in a call and response with their guitars, one playing a scale in a high key while the other mimicked in a lower scale. This impromptu jam highlighted both the musicianship and the close-knit connection of the band members.
Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit have been riding high on the success of their 2023 album, “Weathervanes,” which has been lauded for its introspective lyrics and masterful compositions and topped the US Indie Charts. Isbell’s ability to craft songs that are both personal and universally relatable has earned him a dedicated following. One of my favorite moments was witnessing the love and joy radiating from each musician. They seemed genuinely happy to be performing. Jason even commented on how grateful he felt to be on stage, especially alongside musicians he admires and enjoys. Additionally, he mentioned that they get to enjoy the night as fans by watching Uwade and Sylvan Esso.
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This concert was the first in a series put on by KCRW throughout the summer, and it set a high bar for the following shows. The eclectic lineup, which might have seemed mismatched at first, proved to be flawlessly curated. Uwade and Jason crafted beautiful, vulnerable songs that brought the night full circle, from opener to main act, while Sylvan Esso inspired the crowd to dance and sing along, preparing them for Jason’s energetic performances. It’s always a treat to watch performers do what they love, and this past Sunday was a special evening for those who attended this concert at the iconic Hollywood Bowl.
KCRW’s summer concert series promises to continue delivering memorable performances with a lineup that includes a mix of established and emerging artists, ensuring a diverse and enriching musical experience for attendees. As fans left the venue, there was a palpable sense of excitement for the upcoming shows, with many already planning their return to the Bowl. The night was a testament to the power of live music and the community it fosters, leaving an indelible mark on all who were present.
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