The Head and the Heart brought tropical vibes and a high-energy set to Nashville’s Ascend Amphitheater on Friday night.
Friday night was a beautiful fall night in Nashville with a crisp wind in the air. After a passionate performance by Pennsylvania rockers Dr. Dog, the set (and the vibe) changed.
The Music City audience transported from fall in the south to a beach vacation. Tropical plants adorned the stage in front of sheer silver panels and a sign that read, “Signs of Light.” A soulful soundtrack of 50s music played until the lights dimmed and Elton John‘s “Bennie and The Jets” played loudly. The crowd sang along as the band took the stage, also dancing to the tune. After one last “B-B-B-Bennie and the Jets,” the lights came on and the band welcomed Nashville to their show.
“It’s a beautiful night,” they said. The Nashville reaction was immediate — standing and singing along to the first song. Although the crowd response was immediately impressive, it was The Head and the Heart’s high energy that really impressed. Whether it was an upbeat poppy tune or a slow song, their positive spirits were infectious. At one point, the areas surrounding the stage were lit by a disco ball and one lone couple danced in the aisle.
Some standout moments from the evening (aside from the lovebirds) included a gorgeous three-part harmony on “Another Story” and Charity Rose Thielen’s vocals. Anytime blue-haired Thielen took the mic, the audience responded with deafening applause. They also covered Crowded House‘s “Don’t Dream It’s Over” that got everyone singing along.
“It’s really good to be back in Nashville,” Thielen said. “Thank y’all very much.”
