Monday night saw one of the most talented group of musicians to ever play Bend appear at the Tower Theatre. Brooklyn's Punch Brothers were captivating, moving, and technically brilliant. It was a superb concert.
Those in attendance at the sold out show were treated to everything from older Punch Brother hits from 2010's Antifogmatic as well as a very stirring performance of their song "Dark Days" which appeared on the soundtrack for The Hunger Games. During that particular song it seemed as if the hearts of everyone in the audience skipped a beat. The theme appeared to resonate more with people's real experiences than with a Hollywood movie.
During their hour and a half set, Punch Brothers front man Chris Thile attempted audience banter that while awkward provided decent comic relief. He even congratulated our town on Drake Park, adding that they were going to make sure all future venues they play have a park "backstage" like Drake.
Perhaps the reason Thile's banter seemed awkward though was because he had a tough act to follow. The surprise of the night wasn't the fantastic Punch Brothers show— that was to be expected. Instead it was the opening act Milk Carton Kids. These guys played only six songs, but filled the in between time with some of the funniest and subdued storytelling ever— think Ana Gasteyer and Molly Shannon as radio hostesses on SNL. It was hilarious.
As another little bonus, member Joey Ryan told the crowd that both of their albums are available for free on their website— and he wasn't lying. Even if you weren't at the show you should take advantage of this deal.. you're sure to love them. They're a little Simon and Garfunkel and very pleasant to listen to.
Check out a few other pictures of Punch Brothers below as well as an entire set by Milk Carton Kids in Grand Rapids Michigan— complete with their classic comedy. The only other thing you should do is never ever miss a Punch Brothers show again if you did this time.
