Bonny Light Horseman
City Recital Hall
March 11, 2025
The City Recital Hall hosted an enchanting evening of contemporary folk music, featuring John Grant and Bonny Light Horseman, who truly impressed.
The trio – comprising Anaïs Mitchell, Eric D. Johnson, and Josh Kaufman – delivered a performance that blended traditional folk roots with modern sensibilities.
Anaïs Mitchell, renowned for her folk opera Hadestown, brought her evocative vocals and storytelling prowess. Eric D. Johnson (Fruit Bats, also The Shins), contributed his distinctive voice and instrumental versatility. Josh Kaufman, known for his collaborations with The National and Hiss Golden Messenger, showcased his multi-instrumental talents.
The evening’s setlist was a thoughtfully curated journey through the band’s discography.
They opened with “Keep Me On Your Mind,” a track from their latest double album, Keep Me On Your Mind/See You Free, released in June 2024. “Lover Take It Easy” followed, a song that melds gentle harmonies with intricate instrumentation. They continued with “The Roving,” a reimagined traditional tune.
A standout moment was their rendition of “Blackwaterside,” where Mitchell’s haunting vocals intertwined with Johnson’s melodic guitar lines, creating an atmosphere of introspective beauty. The band also performed “I Know You Know,” a track that blends poetic lyrics with a catchy rhythm.
The energy escalated with “Exile,” a song that combines driving rhythms with reflective lyrics. They also performed “Hare and Hound”, adding a playful touch to the evening.
The title track “Bonny Light Horseman,” from their debut album, was a poignant reminder of the band’s origins. They closed the set with “Green Rocky Road”, leaving the crowd in awe.
The harmonies were tight yet effortless. The intimate setting of the Recital Hall amplified the warmth of the music.
