Early in the evening during Valerie June’s May 28 performance at Park West in Chicago – in support of her gorgeous new album Owls, Omens, and Oracles – the singer-songwriter made a confession that being a realist is how she is able to stay as positive as possible during these hard times.
“I know how to carry sadness and hold space for joy at the same time and I sure hope you all do too ’cause it ain’t easy,” she said before diving into the uplifting anthem, “Joy, Joy!.”
The entire performance reflected June’s talent for grabbing onto the magic swirling around us and, from that, creating beautiful music. Whether discussing the influence of fairies in writing songs like “Love and Let Go” or describing “floating up in the ether with David Bowie and all kinds of cosmic people” to write the impactful The Order of Time tune “Astral Plane,” June frequently returned to the idea that we don’t understand how everything happens in this life, but maybe that’s just an opportunity to learn something new.
“I think about trees and their secret language that they have with each other and how they take care of each other. Whether it be a cypress or an elm or an oak or a willow – I love ’em all. I think we, as humans, can learn a lot from trees,” June said before leading her band in a dazzling rendition of “Endless Tree,” complete with a stunning acapella moment that freed up June’s arms for some light interpretive dance.
The concert had more of a rock & roll party vibe than previous, more storytellers-like, tours as June and her talented backing band often took time out to explore extended jams. One of the most fun examples of this raucous atmosphere came when June and company began a non-stop, three-song mash-up of “If And,” which evoked a sensation of movement with it’s chugging rhythm and impressive drum solo,” the bluesy “Life I Used To Live,” and “Stardust Scattering” highlighted by June’s scatting skills.
“Somebody To Love” – featuring June on her beloved “Baby” banjolele – “I Am In Love” and “Love Me Any Ole Way” were further stand-outs of the setlist.
Earlier in the show, Buffalo Nichols started off the night playing songs like “The Difference” and a stripped down cover of “When The Levee Breaks.” He also shared his sardonic sense of humor, joking that he is the only “not terrible” thing to come out of Milwaukee. Quickly adding with a small smile, “I’m just kidding, I’m terrible too once you get to know me.”
June talks a lot about spirits, the power of nature, and the joy of hearing a beautiful song. When in her presence, it becomes increasingly clear that there is magic all around us – we just have to be willing to open our eyes, our ears and our hearts.
Check out photos of Valerie June – with Buffalo Nichols – performing at Park West in Chicago below and click here to pick-up tickets to future tour dates. More information can be found at Valeriejune.com.
(Photos by Laurie Fanelli)