Kasey Musgraves w/ Father John Misty and Nickel Creek
Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle, WA
9.20.24
Kacey Musgraves is an enigma in the world of country music. Over the last decade, she’s written some of the biggest country hits, yet had her songs banned from various country stations. Her melodies continue to push the genre forward in an evolutionary leap, while also paying homage to some massive stars in R&B and pop by lovingly covering tracks from SZA and Chappell Roan. Through it all, she has remained steadfastly herself. All music is better for it. And Friday night at Climate Pledge Arena, the Amazon live-streamed, sold out stop on her Deeper Well Tour, was a culmination of all that has made Kacey Musgraves, Kacey Musgraves.
Emerging as an ethereal vision through the clouds on stage, Musgraves kicked off her set with “Cardinal”, the ode to her late mentor and dear friend, the universally adored John Prine. It was a beautiful way to begin, showcasing the honest lyricism, stunning melodies, and shimmering vocals Kacey has made her trademark. Lying down in the clouds on stage before being lifted up by wires towards the rafters proved the perfect image to describe the evening; otherworldly, soaring, uplifting.
Over the next 90 minutes, Musgraves drew from nearly the full range of her catalogue: Deeper Well and Golden Hour were the most represented, but nods to star-crossed, Same Trailer Different Park, and Pageant Material showcased her range, and highlighted the fact she has been a songwriting force of nature since the beginning.
As she wound her way from the main stage onto an intimate stage in the middle of the audience, made to look like a tiny forest oasis, Musgraves was joined by show opener Nickel Creek for a spirited cover of SZA’s smash hit, “Kill Bill.” Other highlights in her acoustic set were “The Architect”, “Heaven Is” and “Follow Your Arrow.” When she returned to the main stage, the atmosphere was transformed into a kaleidoscopic dance party, with her cover of Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club” blending seamlessly into “High Horse”, as “Deeper Well” and “Rainbow” closed out her incredible set.
Before Musgraves took the stage, the night was opened by Nickel Creek and Father John Misty. Nickel Creek, the progressive bluegrass trio, delivered an energetic and intricate set that highlighted their virtuosic musicianship. Their harmonies were tight, and their blend of folk and bluegrass set a beautiful tone for the evening.
Father John Misty followed with his signature blend of indie rock and folk. His set was moody and atmospheric, drawing the audience into his introspective world. His signature tracks “I Love You, Honeybear” and “Hollywood Forever Cemetery Sings” drew resounding applause from the capacity crowd.
Together, the three acts provided an unforgettable evening of music that showcased a wide range of songwriting traditions. Kacey Musgraves’ star continues to shine bright as ever, and we’re all fortunate to bask in the radiance.
Photos and Review by Sattva Photo
