Concert Review: Kurt Vile (Haw River Ballroom)

BY MARK DOLEJS

Kurt Vile & the Violators made a stop at Haw River Ballroom, Thursday night, October 13th. This was an early stop on their current tour supporting the April 2022 release of his latest record, Watch My Moves, playing seven songs from the record.

The ballroom was packed wall-to-wall with a sold-out crowd. The energy in the room was fantastic with folks swaying to the music and singing along to their favorite tunes. There was even a crazy looking fan up front wearing orange from head to toe, looking like a carrot, complete with a hoodie covered in a green leaf-like carrot top.

Vile was accompanied by his band most of the show, but for a couple songs they left stage as he performed solo with his guitar. For "Goin On A Plane Today," he took a short break from the guitar and played keys.

The nearly two-hour set was filled with Vile's signature guitar licks and poetic lyrics. The guitar breakout on "Wakin On A Pretty Day" was profound and really set the tone for some extended jams the second half of the show.

During the four-song encore, the ballroom's giant disco ball was lit up and filled the room with a spectacular light show for Vile's recent single "Like Exploding Stones." After expressing his joy for playing the Ballroom and explaining that he would be back, Vile ended the night with a cover of The Silver Jews’ "Punks In The Beerlight."

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MARK DOLEJS

Photography is an avenue that Mark Dolejs uses to learn about the people and places that cross his path. After more than 30 years as a photojournalist, Mark enjoys concert, macro, and roadside photography. Follow Mark on Instagram at @solidrockpix.

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