Pop Break Live: Gregory Alan Isakov and Leif Vollebekk at Irving Plaza
Words and Photos by AnnaLee Barclay
Gregory Alan Isakov performed a sold-out Irving Plaza show to a captivated crowd on November 12. Isakov, a master of folk originating from Johannesburg who now resides on a farm in Colorado, has been releasing albums since 2005’s songs for October. His latest, Evening Machines, has the same soft magic of his earlier work, but also projects the fuller sound marked by his more recent inclusion of multiple instruments, which was highlighted beautifully by his supporting band on this tour.
To start the night off, Canadian Leif Vollebekk won over the talkative crowd by drawing them into his heartfelt lyrics and otherworldly sound. Throughout his set, Vollebekk made small talk and jokes, showing a comfort and ease on stage that complimented his passionate performance. One of the most memorable moments of the night was his cover of Joni Mitchell’s “A Case of You,” a song he’s played before but it always special to hear.
Isakov’s set was nothing short of spectacular—he played a good range of material with a decent amount of songs from the most current album. There was a special energy throughout the venue that brought everyone together in a sense of awe which was created by Gregory and his band’s skill and passion. The audience moved with the music, sharing in moments of stillness during the slower songs and dancing during the more upbeat ones. This was a show that reminds us all why live music is so important and fulfilling to experience.
Another memorable moment of the evening was towards the end of Gregory Alan’s set when he brought out Leif to sing a beautiful rendition of Bruce Springsteen’s “Dry Lightning”. Leif and Gregory are good friends, each of whom bring a unique mastery of folk music to create a dream pairing of magical harmonies. It was a real treat to be able to experience them both separately and together in the same night.
