The Decemberists: Hollywood Bowl, 07/07/07

The Decemberists have made the big time. They played at the Hollywood Bowl on July 7 backed by the L.A. Philharmonic. Opening was Band of Horses and Andrew Bird.

With the Hollywood sign and Griffith Park observatory in sight, the pleasant warm evening began with the Band of Horses, who seemed a bit overwhelmed by fact that they were playing the Hollywood Bowl. They played a short set that included some new, yet to be released songs. Although a bit out of their element, the performance highlighted their strong songwriting and further emphasised the strength of their 2006 album Everything All the Time.

Andrew Bird played an unforgettable set, switching from violin and guitar as he sampled and looped himself to further supplement the sound of his three-piece band. He also included some funky props and effects, including a spinning Wurlitzer-looking thing. He played an impressive set which will have me keeping my eye out for more live dates from Bird.

Finally, The Decemberists came out joined by the L.A. Philharmonic and played an ambitious set. Staying away from some of their more well-known tracks, they played long, narrative numbers including an 18+ minute version of the 5 movement epic "The Tain".

Although disappointed that they did not play "Eli, the Barrow Boy" or "Yankee Bayonet", the arrangement with the orchestra made for a special event. Look for the DVD (I hope, I hope).

Setlist
"The Crane Wife 1 & 2"
"The Infanta"
"We Both Go Down Together"
"Bagman's Gambit"
"Odalisque"
"The Perfect Crime #2"
"Los Angeles, I'm Yours"
"Tain (Parts i, ii, iii, iv, v)"
"O Valencia!"
"I Was Meant For The Stage"
"Chimbley Sweep"

There are a number of home-made videos from the concert on YouTube. Here is "Los Angeles, I'm Yours":