JUNE 11th, 2023
PRETTY GOOD FESTIVAL
Review + Photo Gallery By: Polina Kulikovskikh
http://www.metaltitans.com/concertpics/pretty-good-festival/
As a huge fan of an American band Amigo the Devil, I was overfilled with joy when I got to know that Danny Kiranos and the band are playing in Oslo on the 11th of June. I was literally counting the days. It all had an ambitious start - what ended up being a rather intimate, cozy event held partially at Revolver, partially at Rockefeller called Pretty Good. At first was meant to be a two-day Oslo Americana festival with a lineup including The Devil Makes Three, Lera Lynn, Calexico and many others. However, first the festival was cut to one day and then cancelled entirely due to the promoter declaring bankruptcy. I almost lost hope, until it was announced that the concert will happen and Amigo the Devil was still on the list.
The evening began at Revolver with performances by The Deslondes, Jonas Brekke, and Michaela Anne. The second part took place at Rockefeller, where Midlake, Bonny Light Horseman, Amigo the Devil, and Ole Kirkeng showcased their talent.
June in Oslo is a time when several large festivals, such as Over Oslo, Loaded, Piknik i Parken, and Tons of Rock, are held. With all these options available to the audience, it was evident upon entering Rockefeller that this event might not be their top priority. However, more people started arriving after the first band, creating a pleasant atmosphere throughout the evening.
Ole Kirkeng opened the night at Rockefeller. His music engages listeners in a relatable, lyrical, and sometimes humorous way, describing the magic and challenges of everyday life. A mix of classic American singer-songwriting material and a touch of airy indie rock sensibility, Ole has already made an impact, winning the Spellemannprisen (Norwegian version of the Grammy) in the country category for his EP Rocking Chair in 2021.
Next up was Amigo the Devil, the stage name of Danny Kiranos. His unique blend of folk, country, and dark Americana explores dark and introspective themes, often delving into the macabre and melancholic aspects of the human condition. With intricate storytelling, haunting lyrics, and a raw vocal style, Amigo the Devil creates vivid narratives that captivate listeners. His performances are emotionally charged, combining musical talent with a charismatic stage presence. Amigo the Devil's setlist included memorable songs such as "One Kind of People," "Drop for Every Hour," "Different Anymore," "Dahmer Does Hollywood," "Hungover in Jonestown," and "Hell and You." It was an incredible experience for me as a first-time viewer, and the performance exceeded my expectations.
Bonny Light Horseman took the stage next, captivating the lively crowd. This folk supergroup, consisting of Anaïs Mitchell, Eric D. Johnson (also known as Fruit Bats), and Josh Kaufman, combines traditional folk elements with contemporary explorations. Their rich harmonies and layered vocal arrangements create a timeless and emotionally resonant sound. Lyrically, they draw inspiration from traditional folk songs and poems, touching on themes of love, loss, nature, and storytelling.
Lastly, Midlake, the indie rock band from Texas, delivered a memorable performance. Known for their lush arrangements and nostalgic, 1970s-inspired sound, Midlake gained recognition with their breakthrough album "The Trials of Van Occupanther." Their music features layers of guitars, keyboards, and flutes, creating an atmospheric sonic landscape. Tim Smith's distinctive lead vocals and the band's tight musicianship contribute to their signature sound. The band showcased their ability to evolve and experiment with different musical styles, leaving the audience thoroughly entertained.
Overall, the concert was a fantastic experience, with each band bringing their unique musical style to the stage. It was an evening filled with exceptional performances, creating an enjoyable and memorable event for all attendees.