Jenny Lewis Plays New Solo Songs Live!

Jenny Lewis by CKdeWilde

1 comment

When I heard Jenny Lewis was playing a secret show at the Echo, I knew I had to be there. I never saw her on a tour for her first solo album, Rabbit Fur Coat, which I was obsessed with. She played some of my favorites (to roaring crowd applause with the first few notes –“Rise Up With Fists,” “You Are What You Love”) but mostly showcased her new album, “Acid Tongue.” The new material is rousing and leaves behind the gospel for an alt-country boogie. Of course there were lots of sassy and heartbreaking lyrics, as well as some dusty ballads. Jenny admitted to some nerves but was all smiles by the time she got off the stage. She had a talented band behind her and having Johnathan Rice singing and playing guitar certainly doesn’t hurt  (apparently the two are a couple – and they did sing “Love Hurts” towards the end of the set. You could have heard a pin drop in that room –whatever they do together, they have some undeniable chemistry). I was standing in the wings when Johnathan came off for a song and eventually had to throw a compliment his way – his response was that they were having a lot of fun. You could tell. Him and the other guitarist were still singing harmonies when they were off stage and he had this giddy excitement that was so genuine.

I spotted Blake Sennett, her Rilo Kiley bandmate, sneaking into the venue and sitting in the back by the stage. After all the rumors swirling around the last Riley record– and their possible band break up – it was really nice to see him there supporting her. I fell in love with the pop charm of “Under the Blacklight.” I was hesitant at first -- like a lot of other Rilo fans -- but the title track and “Dreamworld” got to me in the end (though I still hate “Dejalo.” I mean, realllly dislike it.)

So, Jenny Lewis lovers, you have a lot to look forward to when “Acid Tongue” comes out on September 23.  And DON’T miss her live…

RR