June 20, 2013

Langhorne Slim & the Law w/ The Bonesetters – Radio Radio 7/21/2012

Langhorne Slim — now officially performing with his band the Law — shouldn’t need much of an introduction. Live, the guy is a dynamo, bringing more energy in one 80 minute set than many artists do in an entire week of shows. But until the day when he lands that hit for the masses — if that’s even a goal — the dedicated fans will continue to come out and jam to his old-school vibe.

Almost one year since his last performance in Indianapolis, also at Radio Radio, little had changed in his throwback R&B-meets-Americana on speed style. And it didn’t need to. Fans came to hear the tried and true like Colette, Honey Pie, and Rebel Side of Heaven but also to get a taste of new cuts like opener Bad Luck and Someday from brand new album The Way We Move.

Slim knows what fans want to hear. Favorites like Be Set Free and Hello Sunshine also made their way into the set list. But he mixed in the new stuff well, adding that extra touch of swagger when he knew the new material might benefit from an even greater level of commitment. He even made it down into the crowd a couple of times to sing and dance with those closest to the stage. The new songs were strong, particularly show closer Past Lives, which showcased a new level of songwriting depth.

It was a sweaty Saturday night in Fountain Square and the 200 or so in attendance fully embraced everything Langhorne Slim and the Law brought to the stage.

Openers The Bonesetters, once again, were tremendous. Not sure what else I can say about this band — they’re the best band in Indy right now. If you haven’t seen them live, correct that oversight pronto.

About Jeremy Zucker

By day, I'm the principal and founder of Zucker Business Communications (ZBC). Indy Rock Live enables me to write about what I love: Live Music. Indianapolis should be a top-tier concert market and Indy Rock Live is my way of helping to make it one.