News Summary
Wilco and Waxahatchee delivered a memorable performance at Asheville Yards Amphitheater, marking a significant event for the community amidst recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene. The concert showcased collaboration between the bands, highlighted by Jeff Tweedy joining Waxahatchee’s Katie Crutchfield. Attendees engaged deeply with the performance, fostering a sense of community and connection through music. This concert not only entertained but also provided solace to locals facing recent adversities, illustrating the unifying power of live music in challenging times.
Asheville, North Carolina – Wilco and Waxahatchee delivered an unforgettable performance during the final concert of their Sweet & Sour Tour at Asheville Yards Amphitheater. This show marked a special occasion not only for the bands but also for the local community as it occurs amidst recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene and subsequent flooding that affected the area.
During the performance, Jeff Tweedy of Wilco joined Waxahatchee’s Katie Crutchfield on stage for their opening set, contributing to a more personal connection between the artists. The highlight came when Tweedy performed backing vocals on the song “Right Back To It,” originally sung by MJ Lenderman on Waxahatchee’s 2024 album, Tigers Blood. This collaboration underscored a familial bond, as Tweedy’s son, Spencer Tweedy, plays drums for Waxahatchee.
The concert became a community gathering, resonating with local attendees who contributed to a more engaged atmosphere. The renowned singer-songwriter inviting all members of Waxahatchee to join him for an encore performance of “California Stars,” a Woody Guthrie classic, exemplified the collaborative spirit of the evening.
The Asheville Yards Amphitheater event was particularly significant as it was Wilco’s first performance since the venue was renamed from Rabbit Rabbit. Wilco has established a history in Asheville, having performed six shows in the city over the last two decades, favoring this smaller town over larger cities in North Carolina.
The audience at Wilco’s concert was notably local, a shift from previous visits where attendees were largely from outside the region. This change contributed to a sense of community participation that was palpable throughout the night. Many audience members sang along during various parts of the set, creating a communal sing-along atmosphere that amplified the night’s emotional weight.
Wilco’s set featured a balanced collection of classic hits and newer tracks, including fan favorites such as “I Am Trying to Break Your Heart,” “Jesus, Etc.,” and selections from their recent albums. Jeff Tweedy’s engagement with the crowd was evident through his animated hand gestures that encouraged audience participation. A standout moment occurred mid-show when Nels Cline showcased his guitar prowess during “Impossible Germany,” elevating the performance.
Despite the variety of songs played, the setlist notably did not include any tracks from the 2009 album Wilco (The Album). Wilco closed their main set with “I’m The Man Who Loves You” before returning for an encore that featured multiple collaborations and improvisational performances, including “Falling Apart (Right Now)” and “I Got You (At the End of the Century).” The inclusion of numerous musicians on stage created a celebratory atmosphere that resonated deeply with attendees.
This concert served not only as entertainment but also as a therapeutic experience for the Asheville community, providing much-needed comfort and solace amidst the ongoing recovery efforts following recent adversities. The night highlighted music’s role in uniting and uplifting communities, offering residents a brief respite through the power of live performance.
As Wilco closes the chapter on their Sweet & Sour Tour, they are set to embark on an international tour, with performances planned at festivals and headlining shows across South America, Europe, and the U.K. before returning to the U.S. The event at Asheville Yards stands as a testament to the enduring and healing power of music in challenging times.
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